News & Announcements

From the City of Punta Gorda Sanitation Department …

Loose Yard Waste Clamshell Truck Collection Delays

Loose yard waste pile collection with the clamshell truck is experiencing longer-than-normal wait times due to the amount of requests being generated. We ask residents for their continued patience as staff are working diligently to collect the piles. Residents are encouraged to have the landscaper performing the work remove the debris or residents can bring their vegetation to the Charlotte County Landfill.

Vacant Lots Not Eligible For Yard Waste Removal Services

We kindly remind residents and landscapers that placing or dumping cut vegetation and yard debris on vacant properties is not permitted, and city services will not collect waste left on them. We understand that keeping your lawn pristine and healthy is a priority, especially during peak growing seasons. However, please remember that dumping or placing cut vegetation, grass clippings, or landscaping debris on vacant properties is strictly prohibited. We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our community tidy and maintaining property values. Dumping yard waste on a vacant lot, including adjacent lots, can lead to citations, fines, or penalties per Chapter 10, Sec. 10-10 Code of Ordinances.

Posted 09/27/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 09/25/2026

Registration for Harborside Hometown University will begin soon! Spaces for this popular community program fill up quickly, so we encourage residents to register early. For more information about the program, including registration details and upcoming sessions, please visit the Harborside Hometown University webpage on the Punta Gorda website or call 941- 575-5002.

Posted 09/27/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 09/25/2026

The Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday for qualifying purchases began July 20, 2026 and ended August 20, 2026. Read more HERE.

The Hunting, Fishing, and Camping Sales Tax Holiday for qualifying purchases begins September 1, 2026 and extends through December 31, 2026. Read more HERE.

Updated 08/23/2026

Source: FL Department of Revenue Sales Tax Holidays webpage

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.

 *** Update 09/23/2026 *** From the City of Punta Gorda regarding the Water Shortage ...

The Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) Governing Board has extended the Modified Phase III Water Shortage Restrictions through March 31, 2027. Read more from the City of Punta Gorda HERE.

Posted 09/23/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda website post

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 *** Update 06/26/2026 *** From the City of Punta Gorda regarding the Water Shortage ...

Residents and businesses throughout Punta Gorda will need to continue conserving water for several more months following a recent decision by the Southwest Florida Water Management District (SWFWMD) Governing Board to extend Modified Phase III Water Shortage Restrictions through October 1, 2026.

The extension comes as Southwest Florida continues to experience ongoing dry conditions and water supply concerns. District officials say the continued restrictions are necessary to help protect regional water resources and ensure a reliable water supply for communities throughout the area.

For Punta Gorda residents, the extension means existing watering restrictions remain unchanged.

• Lawn and landscape irrigation is limited to once per week based on street address numbers.
• 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.
• Common areas within subdivisions and locations without identifiable addresses are also assigned to Fridays.
• No lawn irrigation is permitted on Saturdays or Sundays.
• Watering hours remain restricted to 12:01 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. or 8:00 p.m. to 11:59 p.m. Properties less than one acre may use only one of these watering windows.
• The restrictions apply equally to customers served by the City’s water system and those using private irrigation wells.

The Modified Phase III restrictions also place limits on other outdoor water uses.

• Hand watering and micro irrigation for flower beds, shrubs, and other landscape plants are still permitted on any day but only before 8:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m.
• Newly installed lawns and landscaping continue to qualify for a temporary establishment period that allows additional watering during the first 60 days following installation.
• Pressure washing is permitted when preparing surfaces for painting or sealing but is prohibited for purely aesthetic cleaning.
• Residential car washing is allowed only on the property's designated watering day and must be conducted using a hose equipped with a shutoff nozzle.
• Nonprofit car wash fundraisers remain prohibited during the water shortage order.
• Commercial power washing companies are allowed to operate as usual.
• Decorative fountains and water features are limited to four hours of operation per day.
• Restaurants may serve water only upon customer request.

Water use necessary for medical purposes, public health, public safety, and welfare remains exempt from the restrictions.

City officials are encouraging residents, businesses, homeowner associations, irrigation contractors, and property managers to review their irrigation schedules and water use practices to ensure compliance. The City of Punta Gorda Utilities Department, working in conjunction with Code Compliance, will continue monitoring water use and enforcing the applicable restrictions.

Additional information regarding the District's water shortage restrictions can be found on the Southwest Florida Water Management District website. Residents may also visit the City of Punta Gorda's Water Restrictions and Conservation webpage for local information, watering schedules, and conservation tips.

Questions? Contact the Punta Gorda Utilities Office at utility@pgorda.us or (941) 575-3339.

Posted 06/29/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 06/26/2026

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*** 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

The rainy season officially started in mid-May and will run through mid-October. Below are some useful tips to manage your waste during this time period:

• Keep bins closed & upright – Ensure all container lids are shut tightly to avoid waterlogging. Place cans on a flat, secure surface so heavy rain won’t knock them down.
• Bag trash – The Code of Ordinances, Sec.10-8 Disposition, lids on containers Chapter 10 SOLID WASTE, YARD WASTE, PUBLIC NUISANCES requires all trash be bagged prior to being placed inside of the trash cart. This will prevent any wind-blown litter during the collection process. The household trash won’t wash out of the bin if it’s knocked over.
• Protect yard waste – Keep paper yard waste bags or bundles on an elevated, dry area - not directly in puddles or street gutters - so the bottoms don’t tear before collection. 
• Check local operations – Severe weather can affect collection schedules. Review real-time updates and collection changes on the City of Punta Gorda’s Sanitation webpage.
• Dumpster service – When dumpsters fill with water typically from rain entering open lids or liquid waste, they become dangerous, overflowing, and heavy, often leading to a mess on the ground. Please note that the dumpster service we provide only covers physical maneuvering and emptying the dumpster/container. It does not include cleaning up waste, debris, or water runoff around the dumpster. Inside the City limits, the property owner or business is responsible for replacing their own dumpster and maintaining the enclosure/area. Here are some tips to help prevent leakage from happening:
  • Keep lids closed – This is the simplest way to prevent rainwater from entering and creating the mess.
  • Regular inspections – Check for cracks or rusted out bottoms and request information for replacement from the Punta Gorda Public Works Department by emailing pubworks@pgorda.us or calling 941-575-5050.
  • Properly bag the trash – Always bag the garbage with commercial grade bags and never dump liquids directly into the dumpster.
  • Spills and leaks – Keep absorbent material handy (e.g. kitty litter, spill kits).

Posted 06/08/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 05/22/2026

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

Preparation is key to a smooth voting experience. If you plan to vote in the General Election:

• Familiarize yourself with the upcoming important dates and deadlines listed below.
• Ensure the accuracy of the information on your voter registration card. Your residential address determines your voting location on Election Day. You can update your registration information online by visiting RegisterToVoteFlorida.gov.
• Verify that your signature has not changed since you registered to vote. It can change over the years due to time, health, or other reasons. To update your signature:
  • Visit any Supervisor of Elections (SOE) office in person.
  • Download the Florida Voter Registration Application (PDF), print it, sign it, and mail the updated form to Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections, 226 Taylor St, Suite 120, Punta Gorda, FL 33950.
• If you have recently updated your license at the DMV to a REAL ID, make sure the SOE office has your updated Driver's License number. Call 941-833-5400 or stop by an office to do so.
• Before heading to your voting location,
  • Review the list of acceptable forms of photo and signature identification.
  • Review your Sample Ballot. Click HERE. Feel free to bring your completed sample ballot with you to the voting booth.
  • If voting on Election Day, be sure you know your assigned voting location.
• If you moved out of state, call 941-833-5400 or email vbm@soecharlottecountyfl.gov and request a removal form.

IMPORTANT GENERAL ELECTION DATES AND DEADLINES

• Voter Registration Deadline: October 5, 2026 (by 5:00 PM)
• Vote-By-Mail Sent to Domestic Voters: September 24, 2026 – October 1, 2026
• Early Voting: October 19, 2026 – October 31, 2026 (from 7:00 AM to 7:00PM)
• Last Day to Request Vote-By-Mail: October 22, 2026 (by 5:00 PM)
• Election Day: November 3, 2026 (from 7:00 AM to 7:00PM)

While Florida’s Primary Elections require voters to vote within the political party in which they are registered for partisan contests, the General Election is different. In the General Election, voters are NOT limited by their party affiliation and may vote for any candidate on their ballot, regardless of political party.

ABOUT VOTE-BY-MAIL REQUESTS

Vote-by-mail (VBM) requests expire after each General Election. If you plan to vote-by-mail, renew your VBM request now so you don't miss out on the General Election. Click HERE to request yours. The deadline to request your mail ballot is October 22, 2026 at 5:00 p.m.

VBM ballots will begin mailing in the last week of September, so please ensure the address you provide is where you will be at the time of mailing. Mail ballots are NOT forwardable. To request a VBM ballot be sent to an address NOT on file, Florida law requires that you complete and sign the DS-DE 160 Statewide Vote-by-Mail Request Form. The form must include your date of birth and either your Florida Driver’s License or ID number, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

A completed Statewide Vote-by-Mail Request Form can be returned as follows:

• In-person at a SOE office
• Email: vbm@soecharlottecountyfl.gov
• Mail: Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections, Attn: VBM, 226 Taylor St., Suite 120, Punta Gorda, FL 33950

To check your vote-by-mail status, click HERE.

WHERE DO I VOTE?

• Early Voting October 19 - 31, 2026 (7:00 AM – 7:00 PM) at the following locations:
  • Mac V. Horton West County Annex, 6868 San Casa Dr. in Englewood
  • Centennial Park Recreation Center, 1120 Centennial Blvd. in Port Charlotte
  • Mid County Regional Library, 2050 Forrest Nelson Blvd. in Port Charlotte
  • Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center, 75 Taylor St. in Punta Gorda
• On Election Day November 3, 2026 (7:00 AM to 7:00PM). Confirm your voting location in one of these ways:
  • Call the SOE office at 941.833.5400.
  • Click HERE to find your voting location.
• Return your VBM ballot. Please SIGN and SEAL your ballot before depositing it in a drop box or mailing it. Ballots must be received by 7:00 p.m. Election Night (F.S. 101.67). If you choose to send your mail ballot through the USPS, please mail it back at least a week before the election to ensure timely delivery.
  • Do NOT return more than one ballot in your designated envelope (F.S. 101.68).
  • You can drop your mail ballot in a Secure Ballot Intake Station at the following SOE drop-off locations September 28, 2026 - November 3, 2026 (8:00 AM – 5:00 PM): 
    • Historic Courthouse, 226 Taylor St, Punta Gorda
    • Murdock Circle Annex, 18500 Murdock Cir, Port Charlotte
    • Mac V. Horton, 6868 San Casa, Englewood
  • Once Early Voting begins, you can also drop your mail ballot off at any Early Voting location.

TRACK YOUR VBM BALLOT

Sign up for the ballot tracking service to receive updates on your ballot status and stay informed every step of the way.

BallotTrax can send text, email, and voicemail notifications reporting the status of your ballot during an election. The tracking service will provide the following notifications when the ballot:

• Has been printed and is being mailed soon.
• Has been mailed.
• Has been received and counted.
• Has been received and not counted.
• Has been returned as undeliverable.

QUICK LINKS

• SOE website https://www.soecharlottecountyfl.gov/
• Register to vote https://registertovoteflorida.gov/home
• Vote by mail https://www.soecharlottecountyfl.gov/1218/Vote-By-Mail
• Where do I vote https://www.soecharlottecountyfl.gov/1222/Find-Your-Voting-Location
• My voter registration status https://www.soecharlottecountyfl.gov/1226/Check-My-Registration
• Candidate details https://www.soecharlottecountyfl.gov/9/Candidates-Elected-Officials

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

Posted 09/22/2026

Source: Leah Valenti, Charlotte County’s Supervisor of Elections, 09/11/2026 email (September 2026) and the SOE website

This year, City Council seats for Districts 1, 2, and 4 are scheduled for election. The qualifying period began on noon Monday, June 8, 2026 and concluded on noon Friday, June 12, 2026. Candidates that have qualified are as follows:

• District 1: Jeannine Polk (incumbent) and George Williamson
• District 2: Greg Julian (incumbent)
• District 4: Gary Butler and Janis Denton (incumbent)

As Greg Julian was the only candidate who qualified for District 2, he is reelected unopposed to the District 2 seat.

Seats for Districts 1 and 4 will proceed to the General Election to be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.

Posted 06/14/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 06/12/2026