Part 2 CONTINUED: What Restrictions Should I Be Aware Of In Punta Gorda Isles and Burnt Store Isles? Deed restrictions, neighborhood covenants.
DOCK RULES, BOAT MOORING, BOAT LIFTS, SEAWALLS
Can I build a dock or extend the size of my dock? Yes, as long as you abide by city setbacks. 7.5 feet from your property line on either side of your seawall.
How many boats can I have at my dock? There are a number of guidelines on this and I can help you with this one. Variables include seawall length, lift vs. in the water, canal width, canal position, etc.
How big a boat can I have behind my house? As long as you stay within your lot set-backs you can have as long a vessel as you please. Encroachment into the canal is an issue to be cognizant of which becomes a concern with catamaran style hulls with a large beam or a yacht. There are canal systems that will accommodate very large vessels and yachts!
Can I have a boat roof or canopy over my boat in BSI or PGI? No
Can I rent my dock out to a third party for a fee? Technically no, because than your dock becomes a commercial operation. Do people do it? Yes, frequently.
Can I live on my boat, moored at my dock on a vacant lot? Well, from what I can find on this one, you cannot have power or water at your dock without a permanent structure on the lot. With this said, it would be prohibitive to live there for any length of time. I am certain there is a city and county ordinance preventing you from living on your boat at a vacant lot but I have yet to find it and no one does it.
WHAT RESTRICTIONS ARE THERE ON MY HOUSE EXTERIOR?
Does the city control what paint colors I can use on my exterior? No
Does the city define mailbox type? No, in fact, lots of creativity with manatee mailboxes, leaping sailfish and the list goes on!
Can I leave my trash cans in front of the house? Only for trash day and must be stored on the side of the house.
What type of roof can I have? Tile roofs are the norm and what is preferred. There were exceptions at one time that allowed metal roofs. Also, there are a few homes from the 60’s with shingle roofs that were grandfathered in.
What type of trees can I plant on my property? I have never seen any guidelines on this nor restrictions.
Can I add an additional parking pad in addition to that of my 2 car garage pad? Yes, but you have to have a larger than average lot needing a minimum of 150’ is my understanding.
Can I have a shed for hobbies and lawn equipment in my yard? No
WHAT RESTRICTIONS IF I AM BUILDING A NEW HOUSE?
First, your builder should be able to advise you on what the guidelines are. The primary rules are as follows:
-Follow city setbacks from sides (7.5’), seawall (25’), street (25’).
-Building height is limited to 2 stories.
-Building elevation is to exceed FEMA designated heights by 1’. For example if your lot in PGI is identified at 10’ on the property appraisers website than the builder should build at 11’. Many builders will build at a slightly higher elevation which will keep your flood insurance very low, usually under $775 per year.
