Grade stakes are wooden or metal stakes that are used in construction and surveying to mark the location and elevation of various points on a construction site or a piece of land.

Grade stakes are typically used to establish and maintain the correct elevation and slope of the ground, such as for building foundations, roads, sidewalks, and landscaping projects. For example, grade stakes may be used to mark the corners of a building foundation, the height of a retaining wall, or the slope of a road.

To use grade stakes, a surveyor or construction worker will first determine the desired elevation and slope for the project. They will then place the stakes at specific intervals along the planned path or area, using a level to ensure that each stake is at the correct height. These stakes can then be used as a guide during the construction process, helping to ensure that the finished project meets the desired specifications.