What is "spite nuisance"?

Spite nuisance refers to actions taken by an individual with the intent to harm or interfere with a neighbor's enjoyment of their property, rather than for any legitimate purpose. This legal concept recognizes instances where a person deliberately engages in conduct that is not motivated by personal gain or necessity, but solely to annoy or injure another person.

In this context, engaging in acts intended to harm a neighbor's enjoyment accurately captures the essence of spite nuisance, emphasizing the malicious intent behind the behavior. Such nuisances typically arise in situations where one property owner may undertake actions—like erecting an unsightly structure or altering land use—that serve no beneficial purpose to themselves but are designed to disturb their neighbor.

This understanding distinguishes spite nuisance from other forms of nuisance, such as those arising from natural causes or claims based on excessive noise, which involve different legal considerations and motivations.