Beginning June 22, you’ll be required to dial 1 plus 510 whenever you make a local call — even if you’re calling from one 510 number to another. This change is the result of a new area code (341), which is being introduced to serve the same East Bay region as 510.

Here are some answers to common questions about how this change may affect you.

What is changing and when?

Starting June 22, you’ll need to begin all calls — local and long-distance — with the number 1 plus the area code. (When dialing from a UCOP office phone, you’ll still need to dial the access code 9 first.)

Why is this change taking place?

Due to high demand for phone numbers in the area code 510, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has added a supplemental area code, 341, to serve the same East Bay communities as 510. Starting in late July, consumers requesting new or additional telephone numbers may be assigned either code (510 or 341). Since local calls may be preceded by two area codes, we’ll need to add the code each time we dial.

What areas are covered by the 510 (and soon 341) area code?

The service area is the western portions of Alameda and Contra Costa counties — the cities of Alameda, Albany, Berkeley, Castro Valley, Crockett, El Cerrito, El Sobrante, Emeryville, Fremont, Hayward, Hercules, Kensington, Newark, Oakland, Piedmont, Pinole, Port Costa, Richmond, Rodeo, San Leandro, San Lorenzo, San Pablo and Union City.

If I have a 510 number, will it change?

No. The 341 area code will be added as an overlay to the 510 region to ensure a continuing supply of telephone numbers for the area, but existing 510 numbers will remain the same.

Will I need to dial an area code for three-digit emergency and access lines?

No, you can still dial three digits for emergency and access lines such as 911, 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711 and 811.

How can I prepare for the June 22 change?

• Begin dialing all local calls with the number 1 plus the area code now to build the habit.
• Reprogram any equipment that currently uses 7-digit dialing to include the full number — automatic dialers, life safety systems, medical monitoring devices, speed-dialing, call forwarding, voicemail, alarm and security systems, etc.
• Update print materials that don’t currently include an area code — stationery, checks, business cards, advertisements and promotional materials, websites, personal and pet ID tags, etc.
• Test telephone equipment, like fax machines, to ensure it supports longer numbers. If changes are needed, contact your vendor.
• Let your friends and family members know about the change.

 Questions? Please contact Telecommunications Manager Randy Kemish.

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