BC phone numbers getting a new area code

Get ready to reprogram your business phones

B.C. residents can get ready to add another number to their dialling repertoire. — Ciaran Griffin photo

With the incredible growth of communications technology comes the challenge of finding ways to accommodate new users. In order to allow for all the new phone numbers needed in B.C., the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) is integrating a new area code for the province. The addition of an area code means that over seven million new numbers can be created.

As of June 1, 2013, new phone numbers may receive the area code 236. This change will not affect existing numbers or three-digit emergency numbers. Timing for the new number may be different depending on the demand in each area. Communities with a sufficient supply of 604, 250 or 778 area codes will continue to give them out as long as they’re available. Long distance boundaries will not be also affected. Overall, much will remain the same—but there are a few things to consider.

The Western Telecommunications Alliance, a group of Canada’s major telecommunications companies, is working to inform all customers and businesses about the additional area code. To ensure a seamless transition to adding the new area code, 236, businesses are encouraged to begin making any necessary changes right away by reprogramming communications systems and equipment. For example, businesses that restrict long distance calls will need to reprogram their equipment to accept the 236 area code as local. Residential customers will not need to make any changes to their equipment.

Just don’t be surprised to note a brand-new area code for B.C. phone numbers this summer.