Western Washington Mandatory 10-Digit Local Dialing Begins July 29

Western Washington residents will have to use 10-digits to make local calls beginning July 29.

The Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission approved a new area code for western Washington in May 2016 addressing the need for additional numbers. The implementation of the new area code mandates 10-digit dialing for all of western Washington.

The plan is to have the new area code, 564, overlay all of western Washington and initially will be distributed to the 360 area code territory. As numbers are needed in the 206, 253 and 425 area code territories, 564 will be distributed to meet the demand.

A Seinfeld scene about Elaine's angst caused by a new area code can be viewed here.

Starting July 29, all calls made within western Washington must be placed using the 10-digit number. If consumers dial only seven digits, the call will not completed and the caller will hear an announcement instructing them to redial including the area code.

The 564 area code will be assigned to new lines of service beginning August 28.

Remember:

Calling 911 will not change.

There is no change to current numbers.

The price of a call, coverage area, or other rates and services will not change.

As this is implemented, consumers are reminded to confirm all services are connected and working with the new 564 area code. This includes, but not limited to: fax machines, life-safety systems, internet dial-up numbers, alarm and security systems, gates, ankle monitors, speed dialers, mobile phone contact lists, call forwarding settings, voicemail services and similar functions. And don't forget to check your business stationery, advertising materials, personal checks and personal or pet ID tags to ensure the area code is included in the phone number.

Please go to the UTC's website at www.utc.wa.gov/overlay for more.