In order to guarantee a continuing supply of new telephone numbers for the Santa Clara County area, the California Public Utilities Commission is introducing the new area code.
After a six month “permissive dialing period” beginning in April the new area code will become active in November.
Starting on April 1, callers will need to dial ‘1’ plus the 408 area code and the seven digit telephone number. After October 20, they will just need to dial ‘1’ plus a seven digit number when making all calls.
Individual telephone numbers, and the prices of local calls, will remain the same.
Verizon advised its customers to start preparing now for the new area code.
“Customers should ensure that all services, automatic dialing equipment or other types of equipment that are programmed with 10-digit telephone numbers recognize the new 669 area code as a valid code,” wrote communications spokesperson Heather Pond in a press release.
Individuals and business owners, they said, should make sure their area code is included in their business stationery, advertising materials, personal checks and personal or pet ID.
Currently the 408 area code covers most of Santa Clara County, including Gilroy, Los Gatos, Milpitas, Campbell and Cupertino.
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