10 PGI seawall rules

Punta Gorda Isles (PGI) is a unique and formerly deed-restricted community with most lots being waterfront.  Today, instead of deed restrictions, it’s a code-regulated special land use area under the umbrella of the city of Punta Gorda. The following are a few summary points to take into account when considering waterfront properties in PGI.

  1. No landscaping is allowed within 6 feet of the seawall.
  2. No rubber mulch, rock, sand, etc., is allowed within six feet of the seawall.
  3. A minimum of six feet of sod shall abut any seawall.
  4. Artificial turf can be used as a grass substitute, but it cannot be attached to any part of the seawall.
  5. No trees should be planted within 8 ft of the seawall or 20ft if needed for future growth.
  6. No Bismarck Palm, Royal Palm, or Yellow Butterfly Palms are allowed within 8ft of a seawall.
  7. The landscape shall not be modified to drain into canals.
  8. Small watercraft may be stored on the dock but not on the seawall or in the yard.
  9. Small watercraft storage racks may be attached to a dock but not any part of the seawall
  10. Dock boxes (max 36” tall” are only allowed on a dock and cannot be attached to any part of the seawall.

Bonus: The FWC must approve signs on the waterside of a seawall.

References:

 Chapter 26 – Land Development Regulations

PGI Civic Association

Edgewater Dr. Bridge information (Port Charlotte area)

Bridges along Edgewater Drive in Port Charlotte, FL

    Click on bridge for more information

    Marker BridgeBoat ClearanceGPS
    1Edgewater Dr. over COMO WATERWAY26°58’27” N, 82°09’51” W
    2Edgewater Dr. over PELLAM WATERWAY26°58’25” N, 82°08’10” W
    3Edgewater Dr. over West Springlake Waterway26°58’24” N, 82°07’12” W
    4Edgewater Dr. over East Springlake Waterway26°58’24” N, 82°06’57” W
    5Edgewater Dr. over SUNRISE WATERWAY26°58’16” N, 82°06’23” W
    6Edgewater Dr. over ELKCAM WATERWAY10ft26°57’56” N, 82°05’49” W
    7Edgewater over OLMAN WATERWAY
    26°57’52” N, 82°04’57” W

    Useppa Island

    Useppa Island’s location

    Useppa is a one mile long by half a mile wide island, located in Charlotte Harbor. It has a diverse history and held othe names in the 17 and 1800s such as Caldez’s Islands, Josepha’s (Joseffa) and Toampe . The island was initially inhabited by the Calusa tribe, who used it as a seasonal fishing village. Later it played into the Jose Gaspar legend.

    In the late 1800s, a wealthy businessman named Barron Collier purchased the island and built a luxurious resort for the elite. During World War II, the island was used as a training ground for soldiers and later as a naval base.

    In the 1950s, Useppa Island became a private club for wealthy members, who built elaborate homes and enjoyed the island’s pristine beaches and lush vegetation

    Useppa’s history took an interesting turn during the Cold War era. In the early 1960s, the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) used the island as a secret training ground for the Bay of Pigs invasion in Cuba. The island’s remote location and lush vegetation made it the perfect place for the CIA to train and prepare the Cuban exiles for the planned attack.

    The Bay of Pigs invasion was a failed attempt to overthrow the Cuban government and ultimately became a significant embarrassment for the United States. Despite its historical significance, the island’s involvement in the Bay of Pigs remained a closely guarded secret for many years.

    Today, Useppa Island is a popular tourist destination that attracts visitors from around the world. The island’s history, including its connection to the Bay of Pigs and the CIA, has only added to its unique charm and allure. Despite its many changes over the years, Useppa Island remains one of the most intriguing places in Charlotte Harbor and a testament to the region’s rich history.

    Useppa Island

    Pine Island

    Pine Island

    Pine Island is a historic island located in Lee County, Florida. The island has a rich history dating back to the Native American tribes that lived there, as well as the Spanish, who claimed the land for their empire.

    The Calusa Indians were the first known residents of Pine Island, where they lived in a complex society with organized leadership and a thriving trade network. The Calusa were known for their fishing and shell-gathering, and their mounds of shells can still be seen on the island today.

    In the 1500s, Spanish conquistadors claimed Pine Island for their empire and set up missions to convert the indigenous people to Catholicism. However, the Calusa proved to be a formidable opposition, and the Spanish eventually abandoned their attempts to colonize the island.

    Pine Island remained largely unoccupied until the 1800s, when American settlers arrived and established a small fishing village. The island became a popular spot for fishing, and by the early 1900s, the island was home to several fishing camps and a few small communities.

    During World War II, Pine Island was used as a training ground for soldiers, and many buildings and structures were constructed on the island to support the military training. After the war, many of these structures were removed, and the island returned to its previous state as a quiet fishing community.

    In the 1960s, Pine Island began to see an influx of new residents, as people moved to the island to escape the crowded city life. The island’s population grew, and the once-small fishing village became a thriving community. In the decades that followed, Pine Island continued to grow and develop, and today it is a popular tourist destination, with a thriving arts and culture scene, and a rich history that attracts visitors from all over the world.

    Pine Island is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including the Matlacha Bridge, which was built in the 1930s and is one of the oldest bridges in Florida. The bridge is now a popular fishing spot and a popular location for tourists to take photos.

    The Pine Island Cultural Heritage Museum is another notable landmark on the island, which showcases the rich history of the island and its residents. The museum features exhibits on the Calusa Indians, the Spanish missions, and the American settlers who shaped the island’s history.

    Today, Pine Island is a thriving community that celebrates its rich history and cultural heritage. The island is home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous art galleries, museums, and cultural events throughout the year. The island is also known for its natural beauty, with pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

    Pine Island is a historic island with a rich history that spans thousands of years. From the Calusa Indians to the Spanish conquistadors, to the American settlers and military personnel, the island has been shaped by the people who lived there, and today it is a thriving community that celebrates its cultural heritage and rich history. Whether you are interested in history, arts and culture, or the great outdoors, Pine Island is a must-visit destination in Florida.

    Love fishing? You can fish where you live!

    Areas surrounding Charlotte Harbor are the perfect place for new home buyers who love fishing and telling fish tales. Located on the Gulf of Mexico, this coastal town offers a diverse range of fish species that can be caught throughout the year and a whole lot of fun along the way.

    As the months change, so do the types of fish that can be found in the waters surrounding the bay, and the opportunities for creating family memories and those never exaggerated fish stories.

    In January, anglers can expect to catch sheepshead, redfish, and black drum. These species are known for their tough exterior, but they’re softies when it comes to a good joke. Sheepshead, in particular, are a favorite among local fishermen as they are known for their delicate white meat. They can be caught around the docks and piers around the harbor and canals, making them a popular target for those who like to fish from shore and tell a good joke.

    February brings in the start of snook season. Snook, also known as the “linesider,” is a popular game fish in Florida and is highly sought after by both recreational and commercial fishermen. They are known for their hard fighting and acrobatic jumps, making them a thrilling catch. They can be found near the inlets, bridges, and mangrove shorelines and can be caught on live bait or lures, and some good luck.

    March is the time for tarpon to arrive in Charlotte Harbor. Tarpon are considered one of the most challenging and exciting fish to catch, and are a favorite among anglers who love to fight big fish. Tarpon can grow up to 8 feet long and weigh over 200 pounds, and are known for their incredible power and strength, and sense of humor. No, we just made that last part up. They can be caught near the beaches and inlets, and are often caught on live bait or artificial lures.

    April brings in the red snapper season. Red snapper is a popular eating fish, known for its flaky white meat and delicious flavor. They can be caught in deep waters, near offshore oil rigs, and can be caught using live or dead bait. Red snapper is one of the most sought after fish in the Gulf of Mexico and is a staple of many local restaurants in Punta Gorda.

    And the list goes on, but you get the point! Whether you’re looking to catch a fish, or just looking for a good laugh, Charlotte Harbor has it all. So, why wait? Buy your new home today and join in on the fun!

    Common fish found around Punta Gorda Isles and other canals connected to Charlotte Harbor.

    In and around Punta Gorda Isles, the type of fish that can be caught varies depending on the month of the year.

    January through April: Redfish, Snook, Trout

    May through August: Tarpon, Snook, Grouper

    September through December: Redfish, Snook, Trout

    Note: These are just general guidelines and actual fish species and your success in finding them will vary depending on weather, tides, and other factors.

    St. James City (Pine Island)

    St. James City is a small, unincorporated community located on Pine Island in Lee County. Pine Island is the largest of the Caloosahatchee River Islands and is located in the Gulf of Mexico, near the cities of Fort Myers and Cape Coral.

    St. James City is a popular destination for those seeking a laid-back, coastal lifestyle. The community has a small-town feel, with a mix of amenities. It is a popular destination for boaters and anglers.

    In addition to boating and fishing, St. James City is surrounded by a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities, including wildlife preserves, parks, and beaches. The area is also known for its natural beauty, with miles of coastline, mangrove forests, and abundant wildlife.

    Overall, St. James City is a charming and peaceful community that is well-suited to those who appreciate a relaxed coastal lifestyle. With its stunning natural beauty, it’s the perfect place to call home or visit for a getaway.

    An Executive Summary of PGI’s History

    Punta Gorda Isles (PGI) is a residential community in Punta Gorda, Florida, located in Charlotte County on the west coast of Florida.  PGI is surrounded by the Peace River, and Charlotte Harbor.  It is also a short run by boat to the Gulf of Mexico, making it a popular destination for boaters and nature enthusiasts.  The history of PGI is intertwined with the modern history of Southwest Florida, which dates back to the late 1800s.

    In the mid-1800s, the area was inhabited by the Calusa Indians.  This Native American tribe lived in the area for thousands of years until the arrival of Spanish settlers in the late 1500s displaced them.  The Spanish were followed by the English.  By the late 1800s, the area had transformed into a hub for commercial fishing and agriculture thanks to the railroad.

    In the early 1900s, the land that is now PGI was owned by a few large landowners and was primarily used for farming and ranching.  However, as the population of Punta Gorda grew, the demand for housing increased, so the land was developed into the waterfront residential community that is now PGI.

    The first PGI houses were built in the 1960s, and the community quickly became a popular destination for retirees and second-home buyers in northern states.  The homes in PGI were designed to take advantage of the beautiful natural surroundings, and many featured large windows, balconies, and expansive views of the waterways and nature preserves.

    In the late 1900s, PGI became a popular destination for boaters and fishing enthusiasts, as the waterways surrounding the community provide access to some of the best fishing and boating opportunities in Florida.  The area is home to several marinas, parks, shopping boutiques, and nature preserves in the area that are popular with hikers and bird watchers.

    Punta Gorda Isles

    One of the defining features of PGI is its canal system, which includes over 55 miles of canals and waterways.  These canals provide access to the Gulf of Mexico and Charlotte Harbor and a stunning backdrop for many of the waterfront homes.

    Another draw to PGI is its golfing community, which includes several golf courses and country clubs that are popular with residents and visitors alike.  The golf courses and country clubs in PGI offer a range of amenities, including tennis courts, fitness centers, and dining options.

    In recent years, PGI has become increasingly popular as a retirement destination due to its warm climate, beautiful natural surroundings, and sense of community.  The community is home to many active retirees, and there are many clubs and organizations for residents to get involved in, including book clubs, gardening clubs, and boating clubs.

    Despite its growth and popularity, PGI remains a close-knit community, and residents are committed to preserving its natural beauty and unique character.  This is reflected in the community’s strict zoning laws, which ensure that new development is in keeping with the community’s existing character.

    Punta Gorda Isles has a rich history that is intertwined with the history of Southwest Florida, and the natural beauty of the area has always been a draw for residents and visitors.  Today, PGI is a thriving community home to many active retirees.  It remains a popular destination in Florida for boaters, golfers, pickle ballers, and nature enthusiasts.

    Bokeelia (Pine Island)

    Bokeelia is a small, unincorporated community located on Pine Island in Lee County, Florida. Pine Island is the largest island in the chain of islands known as the Caloosahatchee River Islands and is located in the Gulf of Mexico, near the cities of Fort Myers and Cape Coral.

    Bokeelia is known for its natural beauty and laid-back lifestyle. The area is surrounded by lush vegetation, wildlife preserves, and miles of pristine beaches. Pine Island Sound is a popular destination for boating, fishing, and kayaking, and is home to a variety of marine life, including dolphins, manatees, and a wide variety of bird species.

    The community of Bokeelia is small and close-knit, and there is a strong sense of community among its residents. There are a few local shops and restaurants in the area, as well as a small marina and several fishing charters. Despite its small size, Bokeelia offers a variety of outdoor activities and is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

    Overall, Bokeelia is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit or call home. With its natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle, it’s the perfect place for those looking for a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.