Nuisance is any annoying or offensive disturbance that can have civil or criminal consequences
Private Nuisance – Civil
A Private Nuisance is the use of one’s property, which diminishes the ability and enjoyment of another person’s right to use their property peacefully and without annoyance.
Examples of a Private Nuisance include loud and obnoxious noises, smells, and a dog barking.
Public Nuisance – Criminal
A Public Nuisance is a criminal offense (usually an infraction or misdemeanor) that is detrimental to or offends the senses of the general public.
Examples of Public Nuisance include the sounds of ongoing construction violating zoning sound ordinances, smoke or pollution from a factory, or a rowdy bar that affects an entire community.
