A new area code is coming to north Mississippi as demand for phone numbers continues to grow.
The Mississippi Public Service Commission previously approved the introduction of the 471 area code, which will overlay the existing 662 area code region. The new area code will serve communities including Southhaven, Tupelo, Greenwood, Greenville, Oxford, Horn Lake, Starkville, Columbus, Corinth, and surrounding areas.
Beginning this Friday, customers requesting new phone service or an additional line in the 662 region may be assigned a 471 area code, but only after all 662 numbers are exhausted. Existing phone numbers will not change.
The addition of the 471 area code will not change how local calls are dialed. Emergency and service numbers, including 911, 988, 211, 311, 411, 511, 611, 711, and 811, can still be reached using just three digits.
The Public Service Commission is encouraging customers and businesses to ensure that automatic dialing systems, alarm services, and contact lists recognize 471 as a valid area code before its implementation.