New dialing procedures starting Oct. 20

To ensure adequate supply of telephone numbers for homes and businesses, the California Public Utilities Commission is introducing a new 669 area code. Starting October 20, it will be mandatory to dial 1 + area code + phone number to make calls, even from a 408 number to another 408 number.

From the CPUC web site:

Residents and businesses with telephone numbers within the 408 area code will retain their current telephone number(s) and area code. Consumers requesting new or additional telephone numbers (or telecommunications services) may be assigned telephone numbers with either the new 669 area code or the original 408 area code, depending on available telephone number inventory. Consumers will still be able to dial three digits to reach 911, 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711 and 811.

Be sure to notify alarm providers, reprogram speed dials and call forwarding, and update any promotional materials with your phone number to include the area code.