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941.743.1200
18500 Murdock Circle
Port Charlotte, FL 33948

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Frequently Asked Questions

Government Agencies & Officials

Elected Officials

What is the principal legislative and governing body of the county?
The Charlotte County Board of County Commissioners, which has five elected commissioners. Meet our County Commissioners and view a map of the commission districts.

How do I get in touch with my Commissioner?
​​You can reach the Commission office at 941.743.1300.

Did you know that the Clerk of the Circuit Court is an elected public trustee who provides a system of "checks and balances"?
The clerk keeps court records and commission meeting minutes among many other services.

What agencies are in the area?
The Punta Gorda Police serve within the Punta Gorda city limits, and the Charlotte County Sheriff serves countywide.

How can I learn how property is appraised?
The Property Appraisers FAQ page answers many questions, including: how property is appraised, why does the appraised value change, what is Homestead Exemption.

Did you know the City of Punta Gorda is the only incorporated area of Charlotte County?
The City of Punta Gorda website has information on their services.

How can I register to vote or become a candidate?
The purpose of the Supervisor of Elections office is to register voters, maintain the voters’ records, absentee balloting, early voting, candidate qualifying and petition signature verification. You can register online on their website.

What options are available to pay my taxes and renew licenses?
The Tax Collector is responsible for the collection of ad valorem taxes and other taxes. The Tax Collector also acts as an agent for several state departments including the Department of Revenue, Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, and Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Use the Tax Collector's website to pay taxes online.

General Information

Charlotte County uses its Home Rule Charter to govern itself.
You can view the full text of our County Charter online.

Can I set up a meeting with the County Administrator?
To set up a meeting with the County Administrator, please contact Judith Fauly or Natalie Sainchuk at 941.743.1944

Where can I search official records?
The Clerk of Courts is responsible for keeping official records in Charlotte County. Some of these records are searchable online.

Licenses & Taxes

House/Property

Where can I get information on my property taxes?
The Charlotte County Tax Collector's office has information and forms online.

I don't understand how my property was appraised. Where can I get more information and pay my bill?
The Charlotte County Property Appraiser has an online FAQ page. They also have a web page to pay your Tangible Personal Property taxes online.

Can I pay my property tax online?
There are two types of ad valorem property taxes in Florida which are Real Estate Property and Tangible Personal Property. These tax statements are mailed out on or about November 1st of each year. You can pay your taxes online at the Tax Collector's website.

Driver/Vehicle

I need to renew my Driver License. What documents are required?
You can find a list of documents that are now required to renew your license. Renew your license online.

Where can I go to take my test for a driver's license or renew my existing license?
The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website has a list of locations where you can take your test. You can also renew online.

Where can I register my vehicle?
All motor vehicles and trailers in the State of Florida must be registered and/or titled. It is the responsibility of the Tax Collector, in his/her capacity as agent for the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, to provide the necessary services and operations to accomplish this job. Register online or visit the Tax Collector's office.

Hunting & Fishing

Do I need a license to hunt or fish in Florida?
Yes, a valid license or permit is required by all persons who intend to hunt or fish in Florida, however, there are exemptions. More information.

Business

Local Business Tax Receipt

What is a Local Business Tax Receipt?
The local business tax grants the privilege of engaging in or managing a business, profession, or occupation in Charlotte County. The tax is in addition to any other fees paid to operate a business. In 2007, the name was changed from occupational license tax to local business tax.

  • A Local Business Tax Receipt is not a license at all. It is non-regulatory tax by which a local government grants the privilege of engaging in or managing any business, profession or occupation.
  • A Local Business Tax Receipt is non-regulatory and can be revoked only if doing business with Cuba, or upon the revocation of a local or State license issued by governmental agencies (examples: Contractor, Physician, Cosmetologist, Realtor).
  • A person who holds a Local Business Tax Receipt as a “handyman” cannot perform any phases of construction. They can only perform work such as re-screening, mowing lawns, carpet and linoleum installation, changing door locks and light bulbs, cleaning gutters, window tinting.

The Charlotte County Tax Collector has more information on Local Business Taxes.

Where can I find applications and forms for businesses?
Applications and forms are available in any of the Charlotte County Tax Collector's offices and on their website.

New Business

What are the guidelines for operating a business in Charlotte County?
Charlotte County Code Section 1 10-18 requires that any person who engages in or manages any business, profession or occupation in the County for which a Business Tax Receipt is required, must obtain a Business Tax Receipt prior to the commencement of that business, profession, or occupation.

Organizations

What is the purpose of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce?
The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce is organized to advance the prosperity and general welfare of its business members and the community they serve. Visit their website.

What is the purpose of the Charlotte County Economic Development Office?
Charlotte County Economic Development Office offers reference material and assistance to existing industry or to businesses wishing to move to Southwest Florida. Visit their website.

What is the purpose of the Englewood-Cape Haze Area Chamber of Commerce?
The Englewood-Cape Haze Area Chamber of Commerce, Inc. is organized to encourage the development of responsible business and economic growth while enhancing the community. Visit their website.

What is the purpose of the Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce?
The Punta Gorda Chamber of Commerce is committed to improving the local business climate, because they believe that when your business succeeds, our community also prospers. Visit their website.

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