INDIANAPOLIS - The Indiana Office of Utility Consumer Counselor is asking for Hoosiers' input on a plan to implement a new area code in southern and south-central Indiana.

With the 812 area code projected to run out of numbers in 2015, officials have filed a formal request with the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission to add a new so-called overlay code to the area.

Under the proposal, all customers in the 812 area code would keep their current numbers, but a new code would be assigned to new customers, while 10-digit dialing will eventually become mandatory throughout the 812 area.

Area code changes would not affect local or long distance rates, local calling areas or calls to 911, 811 and 211.

Before 2005, most new area codes were implemented using a geographic split, with an existing area code divided into two or more regions. The method was used for Indiana's 317 area code in 1996 and Indiana's 219 area code in 2001.

But overlays have become increasingly common since then. Of the 43 new area codes implemented in North America since 2005, all but two have been overlays.

The IURC will hold public hearings on the change in the early part of next year. Hoosiers can also submit comments online at www.IN.gov/oucc/2361.htm .

The 812 area code is the last of Indiana's three original area codes to need long term relief through implementation of a new code. Projections show the 317 area code in the Indianapolis area will likely run out of numbers in 2016.