News & Announcements

*** Update 03/27/2026 *** From the City of Punta Gorda regarding the Water Shortage ...

As drought conditions continue across Southwest Florida, the Southwest Florida Water Management District has announced the implementation of Modified Phase III water shortage restrictions, placing new limits on water use for residents and businesses. The updated restrictions will take effect April 3, 2026, and remain in place through July 1, 2026, unless conditions improve.

The Modified Phase III declaration reflects ongoing concerns about water supply levels and is designed to reduce overall demand while protecting the region’s long-term drinking water resources. While conservation has been encouraged throughout earlier phases, this level introduces stricter limitations and a stronger emphasis on enforcement.

Under the new order, lawn and landscape irrigation remains limited to once per week, following a schedule based on residential addresses.

• Properties with addresses ending in 0 or 1 may water on Mondays; 2 or 3 on Tuesdays; 4 or 5 on Wednesdays; 6 or 7 on Thursdays; and 8 or 9 on Fridays.
• Locations with mixed or unidentified addresses, such as common areas within subdivisions, are also assigned to Fridays.
• No irrigation is permitted on Saturdays or Sundays.

In addition to reduced frequency, watering hours are further restricted.

• Irrigation may only occur between 12:01 a.m. and 4 a.m., or between 8 p.m. and 11:59 p.m.
• For properties smaller than one acre, only one of these time windows may be used.
• These restrictions apply to all residents, including those using private wells, ensuring a consistent approach to conservation across the region.

Some flexibility remains for maintaining plants and landscaping.

• Hand watering and micro irrigation systems may still be used for flower beds, shrubs, and other non-lawn plantings on any day of the week. However, these activities are limited to the hours before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. to minimize evaporation and maximize efficiency.
• Newly installed lawns and plants are granted a temporary exemption to support establishment.
  • During the first 30 days, watering is allowed daily.
  • For days 31 through 60, watering is limited to three days per week, with even numbered addresses watering on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, and odd-numbered addresses on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.
  • Property owners must maintain a written schedule documenting this establishment period.

Beyond irrigation, the order includes several additional conservation measures.

• Pressure washing is permitted only when preparing surfaces for painting or sealing, while routine aesthetic cleaning is prohibited.
• Residential car washing is allowed only on the designated watering day and must use a hose equipped with a shutoff nozzle.
• Nonprofit car wash fundraisers are not permitted during this period. 

Certain activities remain exempt due to operational or environmental necessity.

• Boats may be rinsed after use to prevent saltwater damage or the spread of invasive species.
• Agricultural equipment may be cleaned as needed.
• Emergency vehicle washing is also allowed.
• For aesthetic water features, such as fountains, operation is limited to four hours per day, with hours selected and posted by the owner.
• Restaurants are also required to serve water only upon request, a measure aimed at reducing unnecessary consumption.
• Importantly, water use tied to medical needs, public health, and safety is not restricted under the order.

Enforcement will play a more visible role under Modified Phase III. Utilities and local officials are required to increase monitoring efforts, respond to complaints, and conduct patrols as needed. Violations will result in immediate citations without a prior warning.

As the region navigates continued dry conditions, officials emphasize that conservation is a shared responsibility. Residents are encouraged to remain mindful of their water use and report violations to their local utility provider. Through collective effort, the community can help preserve critical water resources and maintain reliable service throughout the dry season.

Posted 03/28/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 03/27/2026

*** Update 03/13/2026 *** From the City of Punta Gorda regarding the Water Shortage ...

Utilities and Code Enforcement are actively enforcing mandatory watering restrictions, and 25 citations were issued today. Residents and businesses may water once per week on their assigned address day for established lawns and landscaping. Due to the severity of the shortage, first-time violations will receive citations - no warnings. Please visit the City’s website to confirm your watering day. Exemptions apply for new lawns and fertilizer or pest control applications per manufacturer guidelines, but documentation must be available if requested by Enforcement Staff.

Posted 03/13/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda News Notification dated 03/13/2026

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The Southwest Florida Water Management District has put into place a Modified Phase II Water Shortage Order that significantly reduces outdoor irrigation as part of ongoing water conservation efforts in the City of Punta Gorda and surrounding areas. Lawn watering is limited to one day per week for all properties, including those served by private wells. The restrictions will remain in place through July 1, 2026.

The temporary measures are designed to protect the community’s water supply during the dry season, when demand is highest and rainfall is limited. Outdoor irrigation accounts for a substantial portion of residential water use, and reducing frequency is one of the most effective ways to conserve water while maintaining healthy landscapes.

Under the order, irrigation is permitted only during designated hours: between 12:01 a.m. and 8 a.m. or between 6 p.m. and 11:59 p.m. Properties smaller than one acre may use only one of these time windows on their assigned day. Lawn watering is limited to no more than once per week and once per day.

Watering days are assigned based on the last digit of a property’s address. Addresses ending in 0 or 1 may water on Mondays; 2 or 3 on Tuesdays; 4 or 5 on Wednesdays; 6 or 7 on Thursdays; and 8 or 9 on Fridays. Properties with addresses ending in a letter or locations without a discernible address may water on Saturdays. All watering must occur before 8 a.m. or after 6 p.m. on the assigned day.

Newly installed landscaping requires additional care. New lawns and plants are granted a 60-day establishment period. During the first 30 days after installation, irrigation may occur daily. From days 31 through 60, watering is limited to three specific days per week. Even-numbered addresses may water on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday, while odd-numbered addresses may irrigate on Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.

The order also includes provisions addressing other outdoor water uses:

• Residents may wash vehicles at home only on their designated watering day and must use a hose equipped with a shutoff nozzle.
• Annual pressure washing, as well as pressure washing in preparation for painting or sealing, is permitted.
• In addition, homeowners’ associations and similar entities may not enforce deed restrictions or community standards that would require increased water use during the shortage period. This includes requirements to replace plant material solely for aesthetic purposes or mandates for routine pressure washing.
• Decorative fountain use is limited to eight hours per day. Exemptions are provided for certain water features, including koi ponds, small fountains, interactive recreational water features at commercial or institutional sites, and other incidental uses that have minimal impact on overall water demand.

Residents are encouraged to review their assigned watering day, check irrigation timers, and look for additional opportunities to reduce water use. City staff will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary. The water restrictions are being actively enforced by City Code Compliance staff.

The success of these measures ultimately depends on community participation. By adjusting irrigation schedules, maintaining systems properly, and using water only when necessary, residents play a direct role in protecting a shared resource that supports public safety, environmental health, and the long-term resilience of Punta Gorda. Thoughtful conservation today helps preserve system reliability during peak demand and ensures the city remains prepared to meet the needs of current and future generations.

Posted 03/08/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 02/27/2026

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City of Punta Gorda Once-Per-Week Watering Restrictions in effect

Effective December 4, 2025, the City of Punta Gorda has implemented once-per-week irrigation restrictions in accordance with the newly adopted Chapter 17 of the City Code of Ordinances. These temporary measures are necessary while the Shell Creek Water Treatment Plant’s withdrawal from the Shell Creek Reservoir is impacted under the Block 1 conditions of the Minimum Flows and Levels (MFL) restrictions. This approach is part of our long-standing commitment to managing water responsibly and safeguarding the supply on which every household, business, and essential service depends. Shell Creek is a living system influenced by rainfall, evaporation, watershed activity, and seasonal patterns. 

The City’s role is to ensure that our water resource remains secure—not only for today’s needs, but for the decades ahead. MFL standards, established by Southwest Florida Water Management District, define the minimum flows necessary to prevent lasting ecological harm and to uphold long-term sustainability. When flows drop below these thresholds, withdrawals must be reduced.

This is not merely a regulatory requirement; it is a safeguard for the health of the reservoir, the wetlands and ecosystems dependent on it, and the residents who rely on the treated water produced from it.

Effective immediately, irrigation is limited to a maximum of one day per week, based on property address. Irrigation is also prohibited between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when evaporation rates are highest and water loss is most severe. These restrictions will remain in place until environmental conditions allow us to return to the normal watering schedule. During this period, City staff will actively monitor and enforce compliance to protect our collective interests. Enforcement is not punitive; it exists to ensure fairness, accountability, and the shared protection of a community asset that belongs to everyone.

Lawn watering days and times based on property address are as follows:

• Addresses ending in 0 and 1: Monday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
• Addresses ending in 2 and 3: Tuesday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.
• Addresses ending in 4 and 5: Wednesday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. 
• Addresses ending in 6 and 7: Thursday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. 
• Addresses ending in 8 and 9: Friday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m. 
• Addresses ending in a letter or locations without a discernable address: Saturday before 10 a.m. or after 4 p.m.

Per Florida Statutes, irrigation is prohibited daily between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. -
40D-22.201 (3) F.A.C.

New Lawns

New lawns may be watered for the first 30 days following installation on any day.

Fountains, Car Washing, & Pressure Washing

• There are no specific restrictions on fountains, car washing, hand watering of landscaping, and pressure washing.
• Hand watering of plants (other than lawns) can be done on any day and any time.
• These and other water uses should be conducted as efficiently as possible, using a shutoff nozzle on each hose.

Posted 12/07/2025

Sources: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 12/05/2025 and City of Punta Gorda Water Restrictions & Conservation webpage

*** UPDATE 03/31/2026 *** 

According to the Punta Gorda Fire Dept., even though Charlotte County has lifted their burn ban, the City of Punta Gorda has not lifted theirs. Punta Gorda's burn ban is still in effect.

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The Charlotte County Commission has voted to rescind the countywide burn ban enacted on Dec. 9, 2025, following recent rainfall that have reduced the risk of wildfire throughout the county.

Posted 03/28/2026

Source: Charlotte County News Release dated March 25, 2026

Due to weather conditions in our area we are mandating a Temporary Burn Ban for the City of Punta Gorda. The Temporary Burn Ban reads as follows:

Prohibition on outdoor fires and open burning.

It shall be unlawful to set or ignite any open fires, open burning, fireworks including sparklers, or any otherwise lawful outdoor burning (including but not limited to yard waste and recreational fires) or use of any outdoor burning devices (excluding attended barbecue cooking equipment appliances) within the City of Punta Gorda during the time frame designated by local Fire Officials as hazardous. This prohibition does not affect bum permits issued by the Florida Forrest Service.

At a time, as determined by Fire Officials, when safe conditions exist to allow open burning and recreational fires, you will receive additional notification of repealed action.

Thank you for your cooperation and efforts to keep our community safe. If you have questions regarding this information please contact the Fire Marshal for the City of Punta Gorda at 941-575-5529.

Posted 12/11/2025

Source: City of Punta Gorda News List webpage

An interlocal agreement between the City of Punta Gorda and Charlotte County regarding coordinated water supply and wastewater planning has been finalized.

At the February 25, 2025 City of Punta Gorda City Council Meeting, Tom Spencer, Punta Gorda's Utilities Director, explained the proposed agreement formalized the City and Charlotte County's intention to jointly develop and adopt a City County Water Supply Plan, provided for coordinated review of new customers and projects, and formalized commitments from the City to construct water supply infrastructure and from the County to plan for provision of potable water and wastewater infrastructure for areas not served and not planned to be served by the City.

Exhibits:

• Cover page
• Interlocal Agreement (draft)

Councilmember Julian MOVED approval of the interlocal agreement.

SECONDED by Councilmember Polk.

MOTION UNANIMOUSLY CARRIED.

Posted 03/30/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda City Council Regular Meeting Minutes dated 02/25/2026 section 6C

Representative Vanessa Oliver dropped her controversial water bill. She said the agreement approved by both the Punta Gorda City Council and Charlotte County Commission led her to the decision, saying the bill was no longer needed.

Posted 03/30/3026

Source: WINK News article dated 03/03/2026

You may receive a letter from the City about the material of your water service line. This letter is required by new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency rules, called the Lead and Copper Rule Revisions, which took effect in October 2024. These rules require water utilities to notify customers whether their service line is known to be lead, needs replacement, or if the material is still unknown and could possibly be lead.

The City developed its service line inventory using our mapping system, City records, and county property information. In some cases, records alone do not clearly show what material was used. As required by law, City staff will be verifying every service line over time to confirm the actual material in the ground. Under Florida rules, homes built after January 18, 1989 are considered non-lead unless documentation shows otherwise.

Receiving this notice does not mean there is lead in your drinking water, and it does not change who is responsible for the pipes. The City maintains the water system up to and including the water meter, while property owners are responsible for piping beyond the meter. To help meet these federal requirements, the City works with a specialized firm, 120Water, and has shared this information through water bills, the City website, and social media.

Residents and businesses are encouraged to learn more and check the status of their address online using the links below:

• More information may be found on the Lead and Copper Information webpage
• Check your address HERE

Posted 12/22/2025

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 12/19/2025 and 12/26/2025

From Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections …

Vote-by-mail requests expire after each General Election. If you have not requested your vote-by-mail ballot (VBM) in 2025 and plan on voting by mail in 2026, please call the Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections (SOE) office or click today. The renewal process is easy and once your VBM ballot request is renewed, it will be valid through 12/31/2026.

• SOE office: 941-833-5400 
• Vote-by-Mail Renewal Link

For additional information about VBM ballots click HERE and Vote-By Mail FAQs.

VBM ballots are NON-FORWARDABLE, so your CORRECT ADDRESS must be on file with the Charlotte County SOE office. If the address you require your VBM ballot to be mailed is not in their system, you must complete the statewide form and return it no later than 5:00 PM on the 12th day before an election, according to Florida law. Statewide Vote-by-Mail Ballot Request Form

There are two ways to return the form:

1. Email: VBM@SOECharlotteCountyFL.gov
2. Mail: Supervisor of Elections, Attn: VBM, 226 Taylor St, Punta Gorda, FL 33950

Also, you may change your address, name, or party affiliation by filling out a voter registration application. All can be done by clicking HERE or visiting an SOE office.

Important Election Dates and Deadlines

2026 Primary Election

• Election Day: August 18th
• Early Voting: August 8th – August 15th from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
• Voter Registration Deadline: July 20th (by 5:00 PM)
• Vote-By-Mail Sent to Absent Stateside and Overseas Uniformed and Civilian Voters: July 4th
• Vote-By-Mail Sent to Domestic Voters: July 9th – July 16th
• Last Day to Request Vote-By-Mail: August 6th (by 5:00 PM)

2026 General Election

• Election Day: November 3rd
• Early Voting: October 19th – October 31st from 7:00 AM to 7:00PM
• Voter Registration Deadline: October 5th (by 5:00 PM)
• Vote-By-Mail Sent to Absent Stateside and Overseas Uniformed and Civilian Voters: September 19th
• Vote-By-Mail Sent to Domestic Voters: September 24th – October 1st
• Last Day to Request Vote-By-Mail: October 22nd (by 5:00 PM)

Posted 03/08/2026

Source: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 03/04/2026 email (Issue 27 / March 8, 2026)

This year, City Council seats for Districts 1, 2, and 4 will be up for election. If you are interested in becoming a candidate, send an email to the City Clerk at pgclerk@puntagordafl.gov to make an appointment to review the Candidate Packet materials and receive a hard copy. For those not ready to make an appointment, a digital version of the packet is available HERE.

Posted 03/08/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 02/13/2026

The Punta Gorda Police Department reminds residents to stay alert and protect themselves from common scams. Fraudsters often pose as government officials, utility companies, banks, or even family members in urgent need. Never share personal information, banking details, passwords, or verification codes with anyone you do not know or did not contact directly.

Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, emails, text messages, or social media messages requesting money or sensitive information. If something feels suspicious or too good to be true, it probably is. Verify requests by contacting the organization directly using a trusted phone number or website. If you believe you have been targeted by a scam, report it to the Punta Gorda Police Department. Staying informed and vigilant is the best way to keep your personal information and our community safe.

Posted 03/08/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 02/13/2026

Grass clippings and other yard debris should not be placed in canals, swales, or storm drains.

These materials are considered pollutants under water quality regulations. Once in the water, grass clippings decompose and release nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus. Elevated nutrient levels can contribute to excessive algae growth, which reduces water clarity, blocks sunlight needed by submerged vegetation, and lowers dissolved oxygen levels. Reduced oxygen can stress or kill fish and other aquatic organisms. Yard debris can also accumulate and obstruct water flow, increasing maintenance needs and the risk of localized flooding.

Properly managing grass clippings, by leaving them on the lawn to decompose naturally or disposing of them through approved yard waste collection, helps protect canal water quality and supports the City’s stormwater system and surrounding waterways.

Posted 02/08/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 01/23/2026

From the City of Punta Gorda Billing and Collections Department …

While digital payments are on the rise, many still prefer to send checks. If you choose this method, please keep the following in mind to ensure your payment is processed quickly and accurately:

Make checks payable to: City of Punta Gorda. Checks payable to other entities (FPL, Charlotte County, credit card companies, etc.) will be returned.

Match the amounts: The numerical amount (in the box) and the handwritten legal amount must match. If they differ, the bank will process the legal amount. Watch for common issues:

• If the amounts differ by more than $5, your check may be returned.
• If the legal line is blank, the check will be returned.
• If the amounts don’t match, the bank will process the legal amount.
• Example:
  • Courtesy amount: $103.75
  • Legal line: “One hundred three dollars and 57/100” — processed as $103.57
  • Legal line: “One hundred thirty dollars and 75/100” — processed as $130.75

Remittance slip: Always send your check with the remittance slip from your monthly statement. If you can't, include your full account number or service address on the memo line — this helps us apply your payment correctly.

Sign your check: Unsigned checks will not be processed.

Mail your checks early: To ensure your payment arrives by the due date, please mail your checks well in advance. Except for weekends and holidays, checks are processed the same day they are received.

Failure to follow these guidelines may result in delays, penalties, or service interruptions. Incorrect information or missing details can also lead to your payment being applied to the wrong account, incurring fees or disruptions.

ALL payments received in our office AFTER 2:30 PM of the DUE DATE printed on your statement will be posted THE FOLLOWING BUSINESS DAY.

Thank you for helping us serve you better!

Posted 01/17/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 01/16/2026

Here are some fire safety tips to keep in mind while turning on your heaters during the colder months. Heating equipment is one of the leading causes of home fire deaths.

1. Keep flammable items at least three feet away from heaters, space heaters, radiators, and fireplaces. Use the right fuel for fuel-burning space heaters, and turn them off when you leave the room or go to bed.
2. Place space heaters on a solid, flat surface. Plug space heaters directly into wall outlets. Don't use an extension cord or power strip.
3. Regularly clean heaters and inspect them for damage, such as frayed or split wires, overheating, or cracked or damaged cords and plugs. Have any problems repaired by a professional before using the heater.
4. Never leave a heater unattended, especially if there are children or pets that could knock it over or drape fabric on it.
5. Make sure the fireplace has a sturdy screen to stop sparks from flying into the room. Don't burn Christmas tree branches, treated wood, or wrapping paper in a fireplace.
6. Make sure to have a licensed and insured HVAC contractor regularly inspect your heating and cooling system to prevent dust build up in your system. Dust buildup can cause fires within the HVAC systems.

Posted 01/17/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 01/09/2026