New area code being introduced after CRTC decision
Starting January 20, 2023, local 10-digit dialing will be introduced in
New Brunswick. Residents will need to dial 10 digits – the area code
followed by the seven-digit phone number – for all local calls. The
introduction of 10-digit dialing is the result of a decision by the
Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) and
will pave the way for the addition of a new area code, 428, in April
2023, as the 506 area code reaches capacity.
The ever-growing use of communications services is driving the increase
in demand for phone numbers in the region, which means 10-digit local
dialing will be required for all local calls. This dialing method allows
for the introduction of a new area code that will create a large supply
of new phone numbers.
The Telecommunications Alliance, a group of major Canadian
communications companies, is leading a public awareness campaign to
inform residents and business customers across New Brunswick about local
10-digit dialing and the new area code.
“In order to ensure a successful transition, we recommend that people
start reprogramming their equipment for 10-digit local dialing now, as
communications companies are already able to support 10-digit dialed
calls. By adopting 10-digit dialing early, residents and businesses will
be well-prepared by January 2023,” said Kelly T. Walsh, Program Manager
of the Canadian Numbering Administrator.
How to prepare for 10-digit dialing
Residents will need to add the 506 area code to programmed numbers in
all of their communications devices and equipment (including phones,
auto-dialers, computers and lifeline equipment) and verify that their
alarm systems are compatible with local 10-digit dialing. Companies that
use numerous communications systems and devices should also take the
necessary steps to update their equipment. All adjustments need to be
completed before January 20, 2023. Additional information is available
on the Telecommunications Alliance website at dial10.ca.
New area code
Starting on April 29, 2023, the area code 428 will be added in New
Brunswick and will coexist with the current 506 area code. Customers
with telephone numbers with the 506 area code will retain their numbers.
Numbers with the new 428 area code will only be assigned to customers
when the existing inventory of 506 numbers is depleted. Introducing a
new area code does not affect local calling areas in any way. Adding a
new area code to a calling region requires changes in local dialing
habits. Since the same phone number can now exist in both area codes,
10-digit local dialing – the area code followed by the seven-digit phone
number – is necessary in order for local calls to be connected and reach
their destinations
