Seattle region is slated to a new area code soon. Those numbers are “564.” That will expand the numbers for new phones in the area. Those with the old “206” area code will not be affected. However, residents getting a new phone number in the current “206” region may be getting the new “564” area code.
The reason is that the 206 area-code phone numbers is running out. The projected time before there are no more 206 numbers is by the end of 2025. The Washington Utilities And Transportation Commission got ahead of the fray and approved a plan to implement 564 once 206 runs out. The old “206” area code covers Seattle, Vashon Island, Bainbridge Island, and stretches south to cover Burien and Des Moines.
Western Washington saw a new area code added to the region in 1997. The area code was “425.” Much of the eastside of King County is covered by the 425 area code. Those with this number don’thave to worry if the new area code make any chages for them.
This is not the first time. The commission approved a “564” area code back in 2017. That was placed only for the “360” region surrounding Seattle. Some might be confused. This time around is different. The commission’s new decision means that this new code will be used in both the “360” and “206” areas.
The Washington Utilities And Transportation Commission stated, “The Commission directed the industry to develop a nine-month implementation plan to ensure that the new area code will be ready six months before 206 phone numbers run out. The commission originally approved the single area code overlay for western Washington in 2000 but postponed it until 2017 due to successful state and national number conservation efforts. In 2017, the commission approved an overlay of the 564 area code only for the 360 number plan area.”
