subpanel
 

does a subpanel in a house need separate ground rods

Doesn't your tag line say you're an electrician?

I need a quick answer I am in the code book now i have been a commercial electrician for 14 years and in commercial work all subpanels need a separate steel ground not sure about residential SA

If the subpanel is inside the same structure as the main panel, it does not need a separate ground rod, but it does need to be fed by four wires (H,H,N,G). It does not have to have its own disconnect.
If the subpanel is in a separate structure, it must have a grounding electrode (rod), its own disconnect, and preferably be fed by four wires.

thanks for the answer house helper

What is the rule with disconnects? If the sub panel only has six breakers, is a disconnect still required at the outbuilding?

No, but only if it isn't considered a lighting and appliance branch circuit panel.

InPhase277

Which is going away in the 2008 edition... :)