The topological structure of a distribution network with multiple branches is complex, and the traditional algorithm often ignores the branches. This affects the ranging accuracy. Therefore, a traveling wave fault location method for a single-phase grounding fault of a distribution network with multiple branches based on parallel small resistance is proposed. First, the time difference between the zero-mode and line-mode waves of the fault reaching the first end is detected, and a small resistor is connected in parallel at the arc suppression coil. The time when the zero-mode wave generated by the parallel small resistor reaches the first end and the time when the zero-mode wave reaches the first and the end of the line-mode wave generated by the folding and reflection after reaching the fault point are used to eliminate the influence of zero-mode wave velocity. Secondly, a fault discrimination coefficient is defined to determine whether the fault occurs on the main line or branch. The fault distance is accurately calculated according to the fault section, and the fault discrimination coefficient is modified according to the characteristics of the hybrid line to adapt to the hybrid lines. Finally, the proposed method is verified on the PSCAD simulation platform. The results show that the proposed method can judge the fault section, accurately locate the fault point, and has strong resistance to transition resistance and synchronization error.