Ground Rods at Detached Buildings in 2011 Code

Status
Not open for further replies.
Ravenvalor

Ravenvalor

Senior Member
Location
Piedmont region of NC
Hello,

Does anyone recall whether or not ground rods were required at detached buildings in the 2011 code cycle? We are still using 2011. The residential building in mind is just a wooden structure which will be used for storage and an occasional power tool.

Thanks,
 
Ground rods specifically no, a GES yes. A GES is required if you have a feeder to the detached building, if you use a single circuit or a MWBC no GES required.
 
infinity said:
Ground rods specifically no, a GES yes. A GES is required if you have a feeder to the detached building, if you use a single circuit or a MWBC no GES required.
Click to expand...

Hello infinity,

I intend to install a 20-amp 240-volt circuit to the building. The disconnect at the building will be a 20-amp 2-pole switch.

Thank you for the info.
 
Ravenvalor said:
Hello infinity,

I intend to install a 20-amp 240-volt circuit to the building. The disconnect at the building will be a 20-amp 2-pole switch.

Thank you for the info.
Click to expand...

Then you're fine since you only have one circuit and not a feeder. The 2 pole snap switch qualifies as the required disconnecting means.
 
ActionDave said:
You need to pull a neutral. 210.52(G), 210.70.
Click to expand...
Not so fast, those sections require 120 volt outlets, which in most instances will be easiest or cost less to pull a neutral, but one could separately derive 120 volts and still meet those requirements.
 
kwired said:
Not so fast, those sections require 120 volt outlets, which in most instances will be easiest or cost less to pull a neutral, but one could separately derive 120 volts and still meet those requirements.
Click to expand...

Would you then need a GES for the SDS?
 
infinity said:
Would you then need a GES for the SDS?
Click to expand...
I'd say yes. Kind of no different then a commercial/industrial application where you might feed a 480 volt feeder to a separate building but have no 480 volt loads in the building. You would have a 480 volt disconnect at the building, supply a transformer with 120/240 secondary (or even just 120 volt secondary), and that secondary is like any other SDS and needs a GES.

I'd also say in the OP's case if we installed the transformer we would now be supplying the building with a feeder and not a branch circuit, unless the transformer secondary is only 120 volt two wire and is able to be protected by the primary side overcurrent device, so we need a GES at the separate structure anyway.
 
Status
Not open for further replies.
Top