News & Announcements

The Punta Gorda Police Department is warning the public about a scam targeting residents by claiming they missed jury duty.

Here's how it works:

• The caller pretends to be from the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office.
• They may know your name and even previous addresses to make the call seem legitimate.
• They claim you missed jury duty and that a warrant has been issued for your arrest.
• They pressure you to stay on the phone, not tell anyone, and drive to a specific location.
• They instruct you to withdraw cash and scan a barcode at a store or Bitcoin kiosk to "freeze" the warrant or avoid arrest.
• Once the money is sent, no deputy arrives, and the scammer demands even more money.

Remember, law enforcement will never demand payment to avoid arrest. You will never be instructed to pay using cash, a barcode, gift cards, or cryptocurrency to resolve a warrant or jury duty issue.

If you receive a call like this hang up immediately and contact the Charlotte County Sheriff's Office at 941-639-2101 or the Punta Gorda Police Department at 941-639-4111 to verify any claims.

Posted 08/10/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 07/31/2026

As Charlotte County and neighboring school districts begin the new school year over the next few weeks, please be prepared for increased vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Plan ahead, allow extra travel time, and use additional caution during your commute.

During the morning and afternoon hours, children may be waiting at bus stops, riding bicycles, walking along roadways, or crossing intersections. Stay alert and anticipate unexpected movements, especially in residential neighborhoods and school zones.

When driving:

• Obey posted speed limits and be aware of reduced school zone speeds and changing traffic patterns.
• Watch for and follow the directions of crossing guards.
• Never pass a school bus from the rear when its red lights are flashing and stop arm is extended.
• Leave extra following distance between your vehicle and school buses or vehicles making frequent stops.
• Be prepared for increased congestion during school arrival and dismissal times.
• Use extra caution at intersections, crosswalks, and areas where children may unexpectedly enter the roadway.
• Eliminate distractions by putting away cell phones and other electronic devices while driving.

When walking:

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks whenever possible.
• Wear bright or reflective clothing to increase your visibility.
• Avoid crossing between parked vehicles or in areas where drivers may have limited sight distance.
• Look both ways before crossing and make eye contact with drivers before stepping into the roadway.
• Stay aware of your surroundings and never assume a driver sees you.
• Remove headphones or keep the volume low so you can hear approaching traffic.
• If you need to use your phone or another electronic device, stop in a safe location before doing so.

Posted 08/10/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 07/31/2026

The City of Punta Gorda purchased 5.78 acres at 3695, 3699, and 3731 S. Tamiami Trail for $900,000 to support maintenance of the Burnt Store Isles canal system. The property, acquired from Cassell Development LLC, is planned as a staging area for seawall and canal work. City officials previously estimated site preparation could cost about $700,000, bringing the potential investment to roughly $1.6 million.

City Council approved the purchase in April, 2026 on a 3-2 vote after discussion of environmental impacts, zoning, and financing.

Posted 08/20/2026

Source URL https://www.gulfshorebusiness.com/gb-daily/punta-gorda-buys-5-78-acres-for-canal-staging-site/article_59ca2dfc-41c3-4ee5-bc7a-08ef1ae524d2.html

You may notice white smoke coming from manholes or vent pipes in your neighborhood over the next few weeks. That is smoke testing, done by our contractor partner USSI, and it is critical preventive maintenance for our wastewater sewer system. Crews send safe, non-toxic smoke through the pipes, and wherever it escapes, it shows us cracks, breaks, or bad connections that let rainwater sneak into the sewer lines. Finding and fixing those spots now helps prevent backups in homes and overflows in yards and streets, and it protects the system for the whole community. If smoke gets into your home, it usually means a dry drain trap. Just run some water down that drain, open a window, and it will clear. 

Questions? Call the Utilities Office at (941) 575-3339 or email utility@puntagordafl.gov.

Posted 07/31/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Weekly Highlights Report dated 07/24/2026

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 07/31/2026 *** 

Recent rainfall has helped improve local conditions, allowing the Burn Ban to be rescinded. Although conditions have improved, everyone is encouraged to continue practicing safe outdoor burning. If you're planning to burn:

• Burn only natural vegetative yard debris from your property.
• Keep a water source nearby.
• Never leave a fire unattended.
• Avoid burning on windy days.
• Completely extinguish your fire before leaving.

Let's continue working together to help prevent wildfires and protect our community.

Learn more about Florida's outdoor burning regulations and burn authorizations HERE.

Posted 07/31/2026

Source: City of Punta Gorda Fire Department Facebook post dated 07/31/2026

==================================================

 *** 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.

==================================================

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

  *** 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

=========================================

*** 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

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

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

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)