Get ready to dial up some changes, BC!
Starting May 24th, 2025, the province will welcome a brand-new area code—257.
This addition will join the existing lineup of area codes, including 236, 250, 604, 672, and 778.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) decided it was time to introduce this extra code to keep up with the ever-growing demand for new phone numbers.
“The introduction of a new area code creates millions of additional telephone numbers without affecting the existing numbers,” said Kelly T. Walsh, Program Manager of the Canadian Numbering Administrator. “The new 257 area code will be added to the current area codes already in use and will cover the same geographic area.”
So, what does this mean for you? Well, not much will change for current numbers.
This fresh code will roll out gradually, but it won’t affect how we make local or long-distance calls, and emergency numbers like 911 will stay the same.
The new area code just means more numbers to go around!
The major telecom providers have teamed up to spread the word, making sure everyone is ready for this change.
For more details on new area codes in Canada, check out newareacodes.ca.
