The ongoing dispute over recently enacted Boca Grande parking & beach access is heading to the negotiation table. Charlotte County and Lee County officials have officially set a date to hash out their differences regarding the controversial new parking rules on Boca Grande.

The two commissions will hold a joint conflict assessment meeting on Monday, January 5, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

This high-stakes meeting comes after Charlotte County formally initiated a dispute resolution process under Florida Statute Chapter 164, a legal mechanism designed to help local governments settle arguments before resorting to costly lawsuits.

At the center of the fight is a Lee County ordinance passed earlier this year that severely restricts parking on the popular barrier island. The new rules eliminate public parking on streets from 1st through 19th Streets, require permits for residential zones, and cap downtown parking at just three hours for non-residents.

Charlotte County commissioners have argued that these rules unfairly target their residents, effectively blocking them from accessing the public beaches they have enjoyed for decades. Commissioner Christopher Constance has been vocal about the issue, stating his "bottom line" is to ensure there is "no less parking available than we had before."

The meeting will take place at the Punta Gorda Charlotte Library (401 Shreve St.). While the doors are open to the public, residents should leave their comments at home—officials have clarified that no public input will be heard during this session. It is strictly a business meeting between the two government bodies to see if a compromise can be reached.

If this "Chapter 164" process fails to produce a deal, Charlotte County has already signaled it is prepared to file an injunction and take the matter to court.

In the meantime, enforcement of the new rules has hit a snag. Lee County recently announced a delay in issuing the required parking permits due to construction and utility issues at their distribution site. This has created a brief window of confusion—and potential relief—for beachgoers while the political gears continue to turn.

Mark Your Calendar:

• What: Joint Conflict Resolution Meeting (Charlotte & Lee Counties)
• When: Monday, Jan. 5, 2026 @ 10:00 a.m.
• Where: Punta Gorda Charlotte Library, 401 Shreve St.
• Note: Public attendance is welcome; public speaking is not.