How to Handle a Neighbor That Trespasses
Keeping the peace among neighbors requires a basic level of courtesy and respect. This is especially true in regard to personal property. No matter how friendly your welcome mat, a neighbor who continually intrudes on your private property is trespassing, without your permission and consent. Perhaps there is a dispute over actual property boundaries, or it is a simple matter of thoughtlessness. The first step to resolving the conflict is to be clear about your expectations and any possible consequences, up to and including legal intervention.
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Instructions
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Communicate with your neighbor, making it clear that the trespassing is unwelcome and encroaching on your privacy. Be explicit about the actions you consider trespassing, such as coming onto your property when you are not at home, and establish this is unacceptable.
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Resolve any property disputes, if applicable. If the neighbor is unclear where his property ends and yours begins, refer to your deeds to clarify any misunderstandings.
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Put up boundaries to mark the verified property boundary lines, such as fencing or landscaping. Physical barriers reinforce that your property is private and visitors are discouraged from entering the space.
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Mark your property with "no trespassing" signs that state, in no uncertain terms, that trespassing will not be tolerated. The types of signs, their required wording or appearances depend on individual state law.
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Tips & Warnings
Tell your neighbor to leave each time he trespasses on your private property, if you're at home. Document each offense. It may have been accidental or unintentional the first time, but after a clear warning, you can take the next legal steps to ensure he will respect your boundaries.
If your neighbor continues to trespass despite these steps, involve local law enforcement agencies to issue a restraining order against a repeat offender.
References
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