825 to be Alberta's 4th area code starting in April

New prefix being introduced on April 9

A fourth area code is being introduced in Alberta on April 9. (CBC)

Alberta is getting a fourth area code in the spring.

The new 825 prefix will be introduced gradually across the province beginning on April 9 once there is no longer an adequate supply of the 403, 780 and 587 codes, the Western Telecommunications Alliance said in a release.

"To ensure a seamless transition to adding the new area code, businesses are encouraged to consider whether any changes will be required to their phone equipment," the alliance said.

"For example, businesses that restrict long distance calls will need to reprogram their equipment to accept the 825 area code as local."