Get Ready For A New Area Code

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It’s been less than a decade since the 226 area code came into full effect but numbers are running out.

Starting in June 2016, a new area code — 548 — will be introduced in the region currently served by area codes 226 and 519 in southwestern Ontario.

The new area code is the result of a CRTC decision that the Telecommunications Alliance says is intended to meet the continuously growing demand for new telephone numbers.

“The introduction of a new area code creates millions of additional telephone numbers without affecting existing numbers,” says Glen Brown, spokesperson for the Canadian Numbering Administrator. “It is part of today’s reality throughout North America and demonstrates the flexibility and growth potential of Canadian communications networks.”

The new area code will be available starting June 4th, 2016. After this date, residents and businesses requesting a new phone number may get a number with the 548 area code. Numbers with the new area code will only be assigned to customers when the existing supply of 226 and 519 numbers is depleted.

Currently, the 226 and 519 area codes cover most of southwestern Ontario, which includes the communities of London, Windsor, Kitchener-Waterloo, Guelph, Brantford, Sarnia, Woodstock, Stratford and Owen Sound.