Alabama’s new area code will go into effect this month.

Starting in April , parts of western central Alabama, including Jefferson County, will be covered by an overlay area code – 659. The overlay will be used in addition to the current 205 area code.

The overlay does not require customers to change their existing area code but will require alterations to dialing procedures. To complete local calls, the new procedure will require callers to dial the area code (205 or once it’s assigned, 659) plus the telephone number.

Implementation will be phased in over the next several months.

Starting April 13, callers should begin using the new dialing procedure but calls will still be connected if only seven digits are used. That will end Oct. 12, when callers must dial the area code with the seven digit phone numbers in order for the call to complete. Those who do not will hear a recorded message instructing users to hang up and dial again with the area code.

Numbers using the 659 area code will start being assigned Nov. 12.

The 205 area code generally covers the west central portion of the state, including such communities as Butler, Birmingham, Clanton, Hamilton, Jasper, Pell City and Tuscaloosa. The new 659 area code will serve the same region.

People living on that area will have to change other equipment that are programmed to dial a seven-digit number, such as life safety systems, fax machines, internet dial up numbers, alarms or voicemail. The new area code will not change anyone’s current phone number, the price of a call or coverage area.

911, 311 or other three-digit numbers will not be affected.