The 369 area code is a new area code that has been approved for overlay in the 707 area code region in California.
The California Public Utilities Commission approved the overlay of area code 369 over the existing 707 area code region in 2022. This was done to ensure a continuing supply of phone numbers, as the 707 area code was projected to run out of prefixes by late 2023.
The 707 area code serves the North Coast region of California, including cities like Santa Rosa, Napa, and Eureka. With the overlay, the same geographic region will now be covered by both 707 and 369.
When the 369 Area Code Goes into Effect
The 369 area code is set to be introduced in February 2024. After this date, new customers in the 707 region requesting phone service may receive numbers with the 369 area code.
The overlay does not affect existing customers with 707 phone numbers. They will keep their current 707 numbers and area code. However, mandatory 10-digit local dialing will apply for all calls made within and between the 707 and 369 area codes.
Preparing for the 369 Area Code
With the addition of the new 369 area code, residents and businesses in the 707 region should complete the following preparations:
- Update any automatic dialing devices, contact lists, websites, personal IDs, and other items that contain a 7-digit local phone number to the new 10-digit format with area code.
- Know that all local calls will require 10-digit dialing, using both the area code and phone number, including calls within the same area code.
- Be aware that new customers may have phone numbers with the 369 area code. Do not assume an unfamiliar area code means it is long distance.
The 369 area code overlays the same region as the existing 707 area code to provide additional phone numbers to California’s North Coast. With some preparation, the transition to 10-digit local dialing and a new overlay area code can be simple for residents and businesses.