Where is Area Code 352?
Area Code 352 is primarily located in the north-central region of Florida. It includes a range of municipalities, smaller towns, rural communities, and suburban areas. The following cities and counties are among the most recognized within the 352 calling zone:
- Gainesville (Alachua County)
- Ocala (Marion County)
- The Villages (Sumter County)
- Inverness (Citrus County)
- Leesburg (Lake County)
Local government offices in these areas, such as the Alachua County Clerk of Court and Comptroller at 201 E University Ave, Gainesville, FL 32601, manage official records and county services. Further information regarding local area code assignments may be obtained through the official Florida Public Service Commission website.
What Time Zone Is 352 Area Code in the USA?
Counties and municipalities served by Area Code 352 follow Eastern Standard Time (EST). During Daylight Saving Time (DST), clocks move forward one hour to Eastern Daylight Time (EDT):
- Standard Time: UTC-5 (EST)
- Daylight Saving: UTC-4 (EDT)
For official details on time zone boundaries and regulations in Florida, please refer to Florida Time Zone Resources. The observance of DST means anyone conducting business or contacting residents within Area Code 352 should be mindful of the shift in local time between March and November each year.
History of the 352 Area Code
The 352 Area Code was introduced as a result of growing demand for new telephone numbers across Florida. Below is an overview of its development and changes:
| Year | Event | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| 1996 | Created from 904 | Rapid population growth and a surge in new phone lines necessitated splitting the larger 904 area. |
| Subsequent Years | Adjustments and minor reassignments | Local expansions and resource management led to small adjustments in coverage. |
Throughout this period, the Florida Public Service Commission at 2540 Shumard Oak Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32399 has overseen telephone area code regulations, coordinating with federal entities like the Federal Communications Commission to ensure efficient numbering practices.
How Many People Use the 352 Area Code?
Area Code 352 services a broad population base. Estimates suggest that hundreds of thousands of residents and businesses in north-central Florida rely on this area code for regular telecommunications. Key factors that contribute to this widespread usage include:
- The presence of major universities, hospitals, and research centers in Gainesville.
- The popularity of Ocala for equestrian activities, drawing both residential development and industry.
- The retirement communities in The Villages, supporting a significant number of landline and mobile connections.
- The tourism sector in various counties that operate seasonal and year-round businesses requiring dedicated phone lines.
For further population statistics or data on assigned numbers, citizens may consult county government offices or resources provided by the official Florida Public Service Commission website.
Is the 352 Area Code Toll-Free?
Area Code 352 is a geographic code rather than a toll-free service. Calls made to local numbers within 352 may still incur charges depending on one’s calling plan or provider policies. Unlike toll-free codes like 800, 888, or 877, callers originating from within or outside Florida can expect standard per-minute or regional fees under certain service contracts.
It is advisable for residents and businesses to verify their calling agreements for both landline and cellular plans, as each provider enforces different rules regarding local and long-distance calls. Official guidelines and updates on interstate or regional calling regulations are typically published through the Florida Public Service Commission at 2540 Shumard Oak Blvd, Tallahassee, FL 32399 and available via the Federal Communications Commission for broader regulatory information.