Minnesota to Get New Area Code

(KNSI) — Minnesota is getting a new area code for the first time in more than 20 years.

The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission says the 507 area code covers roughly the southern third of the state and will run out of numbers in two years. The new 924 area code will launch immediately. Customers with the 507 area code will get to keep it, but any new customers will get 924.

Ten-digit dialing will be required for local calls.

There are seven area codes in Minnesota. The first was in 1947, when 218 covered much of the state, with 612 covering the Twin Cities. In 1954, the lines were redrawn along major roads, with 218 encompassing the northern third, 612 covering the middle and 507 was added to cover the southern portion. As the population grew, 612 was cut off west of Minneapolis suburbs, and 320 was added for the mid-section in 1996. The 651 area code was created at the same time to cover St. Paul and the eastern suburbs. The western suburbs were split again in 2000, with 763 covering the northwest suburbs and 952 covering the southwestern suburbs.

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