Deck builders in Orchard Homes and Target Range
Decks for the bigger, flatter lots on the west edge of Missoula, where the Bitterroot meets the Clark Fork.
Orchard Homes is an unincorporated community of 5,377 people (2020 census) bordering Missoula on the west, about three miles from downtown. The Clark Fork runs along its north side and the Bitterroot River forms its west and south edges. Target Range, next door, has its own elementary school district. Both areas sit around 3,100 feet on the flat river bottoms, with lots that are often larger than in town.
Typical projects out here
- Wide, low decks that make use of a big, level back yard
- Replacing older decks on ranch-style homes
- Pergolas and roofs for shade where mature trees are sparse
- Decks that open toward views of Blue Mountain and the Bitterroot
County permits, not city
Most of this area is outside Missoula city limits, so building permits come from the Missoula County Building Division. In 2024 the county exempted some deck designs from permits, but not all of them, and parts of the west side have been annexed into the city over the years. Have your builder confirm which office covers your parcel.
Floodplain questions
Because these neighborhoods lie between two rivers, some parcels fall inside the regulatory floodplain. Missoula County's floodplain administrator must approve a floodplain permit before development there, separate from the building permit. Check the county's flood map early, before you settle on size or location.
Low decks and drainage
On flat ground, a low deck can trap moisture underneath. Ask how the builder will keep water from pooling under it and leave enough airflow for the framing.
Common questions
Is Orchard Homes in Missoula for permits?
Mostly not. Orchard Homes is largely unincorporated, so Missoula County usually issues permits, but some parcels have been annexed. Your builder should check.
Do I need a floodplain permit for a deck?
If the parcel is in the regulatory floodplain, Missoula County requires floodplain approval before development. Look up your parcel on the county's flood map.
Services in Orchard Homes
- New wood decksDecks designed for your lot and built on footings below frost depth, from a back-door landing to a multi-level deck.
- Composite and PVC deckingLow-upkeep boards that skip the stain-every-few-years cycle, on new frames or sound existing ones.
- Deck repair and rebuildsSoft boards, sagging joists, a rotted ledger or lifted footings, fixed properly or rebuilt from the ground up.
- Railings and stairsWood, aluminum, cable or composite guards and stair runs, new or replacing loose and worn ones.
- Covered decks and pergolasRoofs and pergolas over new or existing decks for shade in summer and some cover in winter.
Nearby areas
Thinking about a new deck, or worried about the one you have?
Call the number above and a Missoula-area deck builder will talk through what you need.