A new area code ahead for the Upstate

The state will add a new area code next year as an overlay to the area code 864.  Existing Oconee County phone users will notice no change in their calls, but a new area code of 821 will be a prefix starting next summer to any new 10-digit numbers.  The Public Service Commission stresses the following for 821:  “This new 821 area code will cover the same geographic area as the current 864 area code and will only affect the assignation of new telephone numbers; all existing customers will retain the 864 area code and will not need to change their telephone numbers as a code and will not need to change their telephone numbers as a result of this overlay….”