Ellie,
My neighbor keeps parking partly in front of my driveway. I can still squeeze out most days, but it’s annoying and sometimes I have to back up at a weird angle. I don’t want to start drama because we live right next to each other, but I’m tired of it. Should I talk to them first or call someone?
Dear Tired of Squeezing Out,
Start with a conversation.
I know that may not be the answer you want, especially when you are already annoyed, but neighbors are different from strangers. You still have to live next to this person tomorrow, next week, and probably long after this parking problem is solved. So the goal is not just to be right. The goal is to fix the issue without turning your home into a stress zone.
If they are only partly blocking the driveway, there is a chance they genuinely do not realize how much trouble it is causing. Some people park based on what looks “close enough” from their side and never think about the angle you need to back out safely.
Try saying something simple and calm:
“I wanted to ask if you could leave a little more room by my driveway when you park. I can usually get out, but it puts me at a weird angle and I’m worried I’m going to hit something one day.”
That keeps it practical instead of personal.
Do not start with accusations like, “You always block me,” or “You’re being rude.” Even if you feel that way, starting there almost guarantees defensiveness.
If you are uncomfortable knocking on the door, leave a short polite note. Not a long paragraph. Not a threat. Just something like:
“Hi, could you please leave a little more space near my driveway when parking? It’s been difficult to back out safely. Thank you.”
Now, if you already asked nicely and they keep doing it, that is different. At that point, take photos showing the issue, write down dates and times, and check with your city or local non-emergency number about parking enforcement.
But I would save that for after you have tried the neighbor-to-neighbor approach first.
My advice: give them one calm chance to fix it. If they ignore you or get rude, then handle it through the proper city or non-emergency channels instead of getting pulled into a driveway feud.
My final advice: Start peaceful, document if needed, and remember — the best neighbor problems are the ones solved before they become neighborhood drama.