10 Digit Dialing Begins Soon

Get ready to do more dialing. Four weeks from today, mandatory 10 digit dialing goes into effect in the 423 area code. On August 5, the 729 area code will officially be active in this area of Tennessee. The 729 area code is an overlay of the 423 area code. What that means is those who have a 423 number are keeping that number. Any new phone numbers issued will have the 729 area code. Since there will be two area codes together in this region of Tennessee, dialing all 10 digits of a phone number will be mandatory. Starting on August 5, if you only dial the seven digit phone number, you will get that message “your call cannot be completed as dialed”. You will then have to hang up and dial the area code plus the seven digit number for your call to go through.

This process will be required even if you live in Newport and are calling another number in Newport. The Tennessee Public Utility Commission approved the overlay of a new area code because the 423 area code was running out of numbers, due to increased population. One thing is not changing. You will still dial 911 in case of an emergency.