I have a 200 amp service pedestal which is properly grounded using the 2 ground rods and copper wire spaced 8 feet apart. I want to add an RV pedestal about a hundred feet away and plan on using #6 THHN in conduit with a 50 amp breaker. In addition, I will be putting in a separate service to my well from the pedestal on a separate circuit and it also, is about 150 feet away from the pedestal. Both panels are approved outdoor panels. My question is this. Am I required to run the 4th (Ground) conductor between the pedestal and the well panel and how about the RV panel? Can I use additional ground rods at each of the new panels instead. I get confused on when to use the 4th wire and when not to run it. Thanks.

Yes, the fourth wire, the equipment grounding conductor, must be run with any branch circuit or feeder after leaving the Main panel or disconnect.

The neutral must remain insulated and isolated from the EGC. The EGC will connect to a equipment ground bar in the pedestal or subpanel. This bar may need to be purchased separately as an accessory.

Ground rods cannot be used in place of the equipment grounding conductor.

Thanks for the quick reply. I will run the 4th wire. I had already purchased the separate grounding kit for the sub panel and the RV Panel already came with it installed. Only problem was that I had installed grounding rods as well and used bare copper to connect to that panel bar. Can I use #8 THHN for this 4th wire? 50 amp breaker on #6 THHN Wires. Thank You again.

Yes, the #8 will be fine as an EGC with the branch circuit. And #6 THHN/THWN, (be sure the wire is THWN, as most THHN is dual rated), is fine.

As far as the ground rod for a remote panel...

If the remote panel was IN or Serves a building or structure, a rod is required.

I am not sure,and I did check if one is needed for the pedestal, and could not see that one is needed.

One is not needed for the well, being a single branch circuit. Keep in mind, the well casing makes a hell of a ground rod.

Just so I am clear on this... The RV panel is situated by inself and is mountes on a treated 4x4 and will require the 4th wire and no ground rods. Correct?

The well sub panel is located outside and not in a building. It is "New" work and it also will require the 4th wire and no ground rods. From the branch circuit breaker from the Well sub panel to the pump starter, of course will be connected to the sub panel ground. Correct?


The main 200 amp Pedestal Service panel already has #6 bare copper connected to the 2 ea ground rod rods that are 8 feet apart

Correct on both items.