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In Canada, phone numbers are assigned an area code based on their location. The 604 area code is one of the original area codes established in Canada and is used to identify phone numbers in British Columbia, specifically in the southwestern region that includes Vancouver, Surrey, Burnaby, and Richmond.
History of the 604 Area Code
The 604 area code was first introduced in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). At the time, it covered the entire province of British Columbia, but as the population grew, new area codes were added to accommodate the increasing demand for telephone lines.
In 1996, the 604 area code was split to create a new area code, 250, which covered the central and northern parts of the province. Since then, the 604 area code has remained in use for the southwestern region of British Columbia.
Coverage Area of the 604 Area Code
Today, the 604 area code covers a population of over 2.5 million people in British Columbia. It includes the city of Vancouver, the third-largest city in Canada, as well as surrounding suburbs like Burnaby, Surrey, and Richmond.
The 604 area code also covers a number of smaller communities, including Delta, Langley, New Westminster, North Vancouver, and West Vancouver. It does not include the city of Victoria, which is located on Vancouver Island and is covered by the 250 area code.
Dialing Procedures for the 604 Area Code
To call a phone number with a 604 area code from within Canada or the United States, you simply need to dial the ten-digit phone number, including the area code. For example, to call a Vancouver number with the phone number 604-555-1234, you would dial 604-555-1234.
If you are calling from outside Canada or the United States, you will need to dial the country code (+1) followed by the area code and phone number. For example, to call the same Vancouver number from the United Kingdom, you would dial +1 604 555 1234.
Future of the 604 Area Code
As the population of British Columbia continues to grow, there may come a time when the 604 area code is no longer sufficient to meet the demand for telephone lines. In that case, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) would need to decide whether to split the area code again or introduce a new area code altogether.
Regardless of any future changes, the 604 area code will remain an important part of British Columbia’s telecommunications infrastructure for years to come. It has a rich history and a strong connection to the communities it serves, and it will continue to play a vital role in connecting people across the province.
FAQ’S
Q: What is the 604 area code?
A: The 604 area code is a telephone area code in British Columbia, Canada, that covers the Lower Mainland region, which includes Vancouver, Surrey, Richmond, Burnaby, and Delta.
Q: When was the 604 area code introduced?
A: The 604 area code was first introduced in 1947 as part of the North American Numbering Plan (NANP), which divides North America into different telephone numbering plan areas.
Q: What are the other area codes in British Columbia?
A: In addition to the 604 area code, British Columbia also has the following area codes: 250, 778, and 236.
Q: Can I still get a phone number with a 604 area code?
A: Yes, you can still get a phone number with a 604 area code if it is available. However, due to the increasing demand for phone numbers, some new numbers may have a different area code.
Q: Can I keep my 604 area code if I move to a different city or province?
A: If you move to a different city within British Columbia, you can usually keep your 604 area code. However, if you move to a different province, you will need to get a new phone number with the area code for that province.
Q: Are there any plans to add new area codes in British Columbia?
A: Yes, due to the increasing demand for phone numbers, the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has approved the addition of a new area code, 672, to be implemented in British Columbia in 2025.
Q: What are the calling rates for calling a 604 area code number from outside Canada?
A: The rates for calling a 604 area code number from outside Canada will depend on your telephone service provider and the country you are calling from. It is best to check with your provider for specific rates.
