New area code brings dialing changes

Thursday, 05 November 2009 16:30

The Department of Public Utility Control is reminding telephone users in Connecticut that beginning Nov. 14, all local calls will require dialing an area code.

The switch to 10-digit local dialing is being implemented because of the need for at least one new area code, possibly more, in the state.

Callers will continue to dial 1 for toll calls only. No calling areas, rates or charges are affected by this change.

Current telephone numbers will remain in the existing area code, but new numbers will be issued in the new area code when the existing one is used up.

In December, telephone companies will begin assigning new telephone lines or services with a 475 area code, which will serve customers in the same geographic region as the current 203 area code.

The 203 area code territory includes all of New Haven and Fairfield counties, including Bridgeport, as well as the town of Sherman and all customers of the former Woodbury Telephone Co.

Similarly, when the 860 area code runs out, new lines and services will use a 959 area code.

Telephone numbers are not used only for telephones. Data systems, alarm systems, ATM machines and Internet connections, including broadband, are all using telephone lines that require a telephone number.

Approximately 40% of the state’s telephone lines currently require 10-digit dialing for local calls between the 203 and 860 area codes.