News & Announcements

Generally, the Rainy Season "officially” begins May 15th in Southwest Florida and ends October 15th. Although it may “officially” begin on May 15th, that doesn’t mean everyone is going to immediately see rain in the coming days. Just like with hurricane season, tropical systems don’t always begin on June 1st. The transition is slowly beginning, and the daily rain will be here soon!

As such, Punta Gorda residents need to be aware of the hazards and violations associated with overgrown vegetation as we approach the rainy season.

• Property owners are required to maintain all landscape areas, trees, and shrubs in a neat and healthy condition free of diseased, dead, or bare areas and free of debris and weeds (Chapter 26, Section 8.11(e); scroll down for the specific regulation).
• Areas that are overgrown and create a visual blight or dangerous condition by the potential blockage of public right-of-way, sidewalks, etc., are subject to the code violation process (Chapter 9, Section 9-2(g); scroll down for the specific regulation). 

Any questions or concerns may be sent to the Code Compliance team at code@cityofpuntagordafl.com.

Posted 05/14/2026

From the City of Punta Gorda ...

Starting Sunday night, April 19, 2026, the intersection at West Olympia Ave. and Taylor St. will be closed full-time until the end of May. Read about it in the Media Advisory dated April 13, 2026.

Posted 04/15/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Media Advisory dated April 13, 2026

*** 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

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*** 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

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

The Charlotte County Commission has reinstated a countywide burn ban effective immediately due to ongoing drought conditions, elevated fire risk, and the potential for extreme fire behavior throughout Charlotte County and Southwest Florida.

The burn ban will remain in effect until the Charlotte County Commission votes to lift it.

Read the News Release HERE.

Posted 04/28/2026

Source: Charlotte County News Release dated 04/28/2026

*** 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

The City of Punta Gorda Police Department recently launched an Autism Support Program that focuses on both officer training and support for individuals and families.

• PGPD officers are trained to recognize autism to improve interactions with autistic citizens.
• Officers also keep support kits in their vehicles to assist individuals or families who may benefit from the program. The kits include pamphlets and decals that can be applied to car windows or the front door of a home to alert emergency responders that someone in the car or house has a communication disorder. These are also available at the Public Safety Building at 1410 Tamiami Trail.

Posted 04/16/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 04/10/2026

A list of the City's priority projects that could receive funding if voters approve an extension of the county’s 1% local option sales tax in the November 3, 2026 general election has been prepared and prioritized. The recommendations of the City’s 1% Local Sales Tax Committee was presented to City Council on March 11, 2026. The committee reviewed 50 capital improvement projects and ranked them based on priority.

Some projects on the list include funding for:

• The city’s reverse osmosis water plant.
• Phase 3 of the city’s Downtown Flooding project.
• Improvements to Laishley Marina including repairing and replacing docks. 
• A new fire truck to replace a 23-year-old truck that remains in service.
• Expansion of the city’s Public Safety Building.
• The purchase of new radio equipment for the police and fire departments.
• Improvements to infrastructure in the Historic District.
• Improvements to West Henry Street properties.
• Maud Street angled parking.
• Lighting improvements for the southbound U.S. 41 bridge approach.
• Completion of Royal Poinciana improvements.

Planning Director Boyd  Lawrence said the 1% sales tax has generated an average of about $4 million annually for the city.

City Manager Melissa Reichert said Charlotte County ultimately writes the language for the referendum, while municipalities submit and prioritize their project lists, typically categorizing them as Tier 1 or Tier 2 priorities. 

The City’s Sales Tax Committee included 16 members who began meeting July 8, 2025 and held seven meetings before concluding Feb. 24, 2026. 

Posted 04/16/2026

Source: Gulfshore Business article dated 03/12/2026

Click HERE for the list of projects.

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

Please take a moment to verify that your signature and residential address are current and update your voter registration if needed.

• Is the address on file with the Charlotte County Supervisor of Election’s (SOE) office your current Florida residence?
  • Manage your address HERE.
  • Moved out of state? Call 941-833-5400 or email soe@soecharlottecountyfl.gov and request a removal form.
• Verify that your signature has not changed, as it can change over the years.
  • To avoid any potential problems with your Vote-by Mail ballot or when you go to vote, you should ensure that the SOE has an up-to-date record of your signature on file. If you think your handwriting has changed, update your signature using a Voter Registration Application at any of their offices.
    • Punta Gorda, 226 Taylor Street
    • Port Charlotte, 18500 Murdock Circle
    • Englewood, 6868 San Casa Drive

Ensuring that your voter registration information (name, address, and signature) is current is crucial for a smooth voting experience. Delve into your registration details now to make any necessary changes. Visit one of the three Charlotte County SOE offices or go ONLINE.

Questions? Call the SOE office at 941-833-5400 or visit the SOE website.

Posted 05/03/2026

Sources: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 04/03/2026 email (Issue 28 / April 2026) and the  SOE website

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

Have you recently updated your license at the DMV to a REAL ID? Make sure we have your updated Driver's License number. You can call 941-833-5400 or stop by any of our three office locations to do so.

• Punta Gorda, 226 Taylor Street
• Port Charlotte, 18500 Murdock Circle
• Englewood, 6868 San Casa Drive

Posted 05/01/2026 

Source: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 05/01/2026 newsletter (Issue 29 / May 2026)

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

Due to continued growth in Charlotte County, we have added five new polling locations to better serve voters across the community. As a result, your Election Day polling location may have changed. 

Before heading to the polls, we encourage all voters to visit our website and click "Where Do I Vote" to enter your home address and confirm your assigned polling location. 

Please remember that on Election Day you must vote at your designated home polling place. Taking a moment to verify your location in advance will help ensure a smooth and efficient voting experience.

Posted 04/30/2026

Source: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 04/03/2026 email (Issue 28 / April 2026)

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