Area code split: Difference between revisions

Revision as of 00:10, 30 May 2021

Revision as of 22:58, 31 July 2021

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{{refimprove|date=May 2021}}

{{short description|Method of central office code relief in the NANP}}

{{refimprovemore citations needed|date=May 2021}}

In [[telecommunications]], an '''area code split''' is the practice of introducing a new telephone [[area code]] by geographically dividing an existing [[numbering plan area]] (NPA), and assigning area codes to the resulting divisions, but retaining the existing area code only for one of the divisions. The purpose of this practice is to provide more [[central office prefix]]es, and therefore more [[telephone number]]s, in an area with high demand for telephone services, and prevent a shortage of telephone numbers.

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Furthermore, the new boundaries are drawn in a manner that minimizes splitting communities and should coincide with political subdivision where practical.<ref name="notes1975" /> Other geographic features, such as rivers and bodies of water, mountain ranges, or highways may serve as guides for boundary placements. Tributary toll telephone routes should also not be unduly cut, so prevent rerouting to new toll center switching systems.

The area that retains the existing area code is typically the largest, or historically more more established or developed place.

==Area code overlays==