Frequently Asked Questions
Area code 207 is the single area code serving the entire state of Maine.
Area code 207 was implemented in 1947 as one of the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) area codes.
Due to effective number management practices like number pooling, Maine has been able to avoid splitting or overlaying its area code, resulting in the entire state remaining under area code 207.
As of November 2023, the projected exhaust date for area code 207 is the first quarter of 2027.
There are approximately 7.92 million possible phone numbers within area code 207.
The utilization rate for area code 207 is approximately 62%.
The Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) is responsible for overseeing telecommunications services and area code 207 in Maine.
10-digit dialing (area code + 7-digit number) is required for all calls within area code 207.
Area code 207 supports landline, wireless, and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) services.
Major carriers in Maine include Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, with other smaller carriers making up the remaining market share.
Number pooling, implemented in 2001, helps extend the lifespan of area code 207 by allocating numbers in smaller blocks to maximize utilization.
Key milestones include the introduction of area code 207 in 1947, the implementation of number pooling in 2001, and the extension of the exhaust projection in 2020.
The Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) website is a valuable resource for information on area code 207 regulations.
Maine uses area code 207 for the entire state. Established in 1947, it's one of the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) area codes and has remarkably remained the sole area code for Maine.
Maine's efficient number management has allowed it to retain a single area code, 207, since 1947. While other states have adopted multiple area codes due to number exhaustion, Maine has implemented strategies like number pooling to extend the lifespan of 207.
You must use 10-digit dialing for all calls within area code 207. This includes dialing both the area code and the seven-digit phone number, regardless of your location within Maine. This rule was implemented to accommodate potential future area code changes.
Area code 207 is projected to exhaust its available numbers in the first quarter of 2027. This is based on current usage trends and underscores the need for continued number management strategies by the Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC).
The current utilization rate for area code 207 is 62%. This means that over half of the approximately 7.92 million available phone numbers are already in use, highlighting the effectiveness of number pooling and other conservation efforts.
All cities in Maine use area code 207. This includes major cities such as Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, and Augusta. The single area code simplifies dialing across the state.
Verizon holds the largest market share in Maine at 35%, followed by AT&T at 30%, and T-Mobile at 20%. Other smaller carriers make up the remaining 15% of the market share.
Area code 207 supports landline, wireless, and VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone services. This variety allows residents and businesses to choose the option that best suits their needs and location.
The Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) is the regulatory body responsible for overseeing telecommunications services, including the management of area code 207, in Maine. They ensure adherence to NANPA regulations and establish dialing requirements.
Number pooling, implemented in Maine in 2001, is a number management strategy that allocates numbers in smaller blocks to maximize utilization. This helped extend the lifespan of area code 207 and delay number exhaustion.
Area code 207 was established in 1947 as one of the original North American Numbering Plan (NANP) area codes. This marked a significant step in standardizing the North American telecommunications system.
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Comprehensive Guide to Area Code 207: Maine's Unique Telephone Code
Introduction
Area code 207 exclusively serves the state of Maine within the North American Numbering Plan (NANP). Established in 1947, it stands as a testament to efficient number management, remaining the sole area code for the entire state. This guide provides you with a deep dive into the technical, geographical, regulatory, and historical aspects of area code 207.
Technical Specifications of Area Code 207
Let's start with the core technical details of area code 207. Understanding these specifications provides a foundation for navigating the complexities of telecommunication systems.
Geographic Coverage
Area code 207 blankets the entire state of Maine, encompassing its diverse landscape from bustling cities to tranquil rural communities. This comprehensive coverage simplifies dialing, as you only need to remember one area code for the entire state.
Major Cities within Area Code 207
The following table lists some of Maine's major cities, all falling under area code 207:
This broad coverage, while convenient, presents challenges for future expansion as the demand for numbers grows.
Numbering and Utilization Statistics
Understanding the current usage of area code 207 is crucial for planning future telecommunications needs. Consider these key statistics:
These figures underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and strategic planning by the Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC) to ensure the long-term viability of the current system.
Network Infrastructure
Maine's telecommunications infrastructure relies on a mix of major carriers and service types to provide comprehensive coverage. This infrastructure is vital for supporting the state's communication needs.
Major Carriers
The market share distribution among major carriers in Maine is as follows:
This competitive landscape fosters innovation and provides you with a variety of choices for your telecommunication services.
Types of Services Available
Area code 207 supports a range of services to meet diverse communication needs:
The availability of these services ensures that you can choose the option that best suits your requirements and location. It's important to note that, as per the Maine Public Utilities Commission (MPUC), the only retail telephone service offering under their regulatory authority is Provider of Last Resort (POLR) service. This primarily affects flat-rate voice-grade access within basic local calling areas, offered by incumbent local exchange carriers (ILECs). Non-POLR offerings, including wireless and VoIP, are not subject to the same rate regulation.
Regulatory Framework
The regulatory framework governing area code 207 ensures its efficient and sustainable operation. Understanding these regulations helps you navigate the legal landscape of telecommunications in Maine.
Regulatory Oversight
The MPUC's regulatory oversight helps maintain a stable and reliable telecommunications environment for you.
Historical Milestones
The history of area code 207 reflects the evolution of telecommunications in Maine. These milestones highlight key developments in the management and longevity of the area code.
These milestones, along with the preservation efforts of organizations like The Telephone Museum in Ellsworth (as highlighted in additional research), showcase the ongoing dedication to maintaining Maine's telecommunications heritage.
Conclusion
Area code 207 is an integral part of Maine's communication infrastructure. Its historical significance, combined with effective management practices, ensures its continued service to the residents and businesses of Maine. As the demand for telephone numbers continues to grow, ongoing monitoring and strategic planning by the MPUC will be essential to maintain the long-term viability of this vital resource. For further information, you can explore the MPUC website and other resources mentioned throughout this guide.