centerline stake would be marked for a fill to reach the
same elevation.
Slope Stakes
The identification markings on slope stakes may
vary according to survey parties; however, the symbol
SS is the most commonly used slope stake symbol.
The information normally found on a slope stake (fig.
15-33) is any cut-or-fill requirements, the distance
from the center line, and the slope ratio. When it
becomes necessary to offset the slope stake, the offset
distance from where the slope stake should be is
written at the bottom of the offset stake.
Slope stakes indicate the intersection of the
cut-or-fill slope with the existing natural groundline
and limit of earthwork on each side of the center line
(fig. 15-34).
Right-of-Way Stakes
Stakes set on the property line of a construction
site are known as right-of-way stakes. These stakes
Figure 15-33.—Slope stake.
mark the boundaries of the site or project. You must
not operate equipment outside the property line
defined by the right-of-way stakes. The right-of-way
stakes are usually marked by the use of colored cloth
(bunting) or flagging. Occasionally right-of-way
stakes may be marked with the symbol R/W (fig.
15-35).
Finish Grade Stakes
When performing final grading, you are likely to
work with stakes called blue tops. These are hub
stakes, which are usually 2 inches by 2 inches by 6
inches. These hubs are driven into the ground until the
top is at the exact elevation of the finished grade as
determined by the surveying crew. They are colored
with a blue lumber crayon (keel) to identify them as
finish grade stakes. Red crayon is normally used to
indicate the subgrade elevation. Blue top stakes are
placed when the existing grade is within 0.2 feet (2.4
inches) above the final or desired grade. The desired
grade is obtained by lowering or raising the compacted
grade with a grader until it is flush or even with the
top of the hub (fig. 15-36).
Figure 15-35.—Right-of-way stake symbol.
Figure 15-34.—Slope stake set in existing natural groundline.
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