New Area Code to be Added to East Tennessee

CHATTANOOGA, Tenn. (WDEF) – New phones sold in our area may soon be assigned a new area code.

The Tennessee Public Utility Commission has designated the 423 area code as needing relief.

This is because they expect all possible number combinations to be exhausted by the end of 2025.

To help ensure new numbers can be created, a 729 code will be added as an overlay to the 423 code.

All calls in our area will need to be dialed with ten digits once this goes into effect.

“Pretty much that’s accepted nationwide, that it’s no big deal to dial 10 digits to get your call,” John Hutton, a telecom utilities consultant for the commission, said.

You will be able to keep your current phone number, but requests for new lines may be assigned to the 729.

The Nashville area had to go through a similar process recently due to their population growth as well.

The outline of the existing 423 area code in Southeastern Tennessee. (Courtesy: State of Tennessee)