Area code 815, which serves northwestern and north central Illinois, will soon run out of numbers, according to the North American Numbering Plan Administration. To resolve this problem, the Illinois Commerce Commission authorized the assignment of a second area code. Beginning August 17, 2006, calls to the local calling area will be made by dialing 11 digits — 1 + the area code + the number — rather than seven.

When the pool of available numbers nears exhaustion, a new area code must be assigned. The division of numbers within a region may be handled one of two different ways.

The first solution could be an overlay: area codes would coexist and each would be dispersed throughout the region. Everyone would have to dial 11 digits — 1 + the area code + the seven digit number — as opposed to dialing only the seven digit number in the local area — even when calling next door or across the street. Neighbors may have been issued a different area code.

Another option would be to split the 815 area code region. In this case, the geographic map would be split down the middle. Local dialing would remain seven digits, but half of the region would be assigned a new area code, and possibly a new number.

The ICC determined that the overlay method would be most convenient, since there is no need for established businesses or residents to reprint stationery or change signage and directory information. Eleven digit calls placed in the local calling area (DeKalb, Sycamore, Creston, Genoa-Kingston, Hinckley, Kirkland, Malta, Maple Park, Shabbona-Lee and Waterman) will not result in long-distance fees.

Aug. 17, 2006 to Feb. 17, 2007 will be a period of permissive dialing. During this time, anyone in the local calling area can be reached by dialing either the seven digit number or the 11 digit number. After Feb. 17, 11 digit dialing will be required for all calls. Calls between NIU offices will remain 7 digits. The new code, 779, may be assigned to new residents and businesses as early as March 17, 2007.