A new feeder, including an equipment grounding conductor, supplies multiple branch circuits in a detached workshop serving a one-family dwelling. Under the 2026 NEC grounding rules for separate buildings, what additional grounding provision is generally required at the shop?
- A grounding electrode system connected at the building
- BA second utility service drop
- CA neutral bond at every panel
- DNo electrode when a feeder is used for the feeder and operating condition described
Where to look it up
https://www.dli.mn.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/eli_inspection_checklist-2026NEC.pdf
Why A is correct
A, a grounding electrode system connected at the detached building. The equipment grounding conductor must run with the feeder and connect to that system; an electrode does not replace the feeder grounding conductor. The electrodes present at the building are bonded into a single system. The case is a new feeder supplying multiple branch circuits, not a single branch circuit or an existing three-wire supply. A second utility service is not required, and neutral bonds at every panel do not provide the required electrode system. Source: Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry, Electrical inspection checklist for one-family dwellings, based on the 2026 NEC, page 8, items 067 and 068 (250.32 and 250.50): https://www.dli.mn.gov/sites/default/files/pdf/eli_inspection_checklist-2026NEC.pdf