What is the purpose of line stakes in laying out a fence?

• A. To anchor temporary fencing only.
• B. To indicate the property boundary on the plat.
• C. To mark the exact position of posts and fence line on the ground for accurate installation.
• D. To mark the height of the fence.

Answer: (C)

Line stakes provide a precise map of where the fence will go in the real world. They mark the exact spots for each post and outline the fence line on the ground, turning the plan into a tangible guide. With stakes and a string line between them, you can see and confirm the straightness of the run, the alignment of corners, and the spacing from property lines and gates. This ensures the post holes are dug in the right places and the fence sits exactly where it’s supposed to, making installation accurate from start to finish. After the fence is built, the stakes are usually removed or kept as reference, but their purpose is to guide accurate placement, not to indicate height or to hold temporary fencing.