Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes Continuing Operations Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Difference in Provision (Benefit) for Income Taxes Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of Reconciliation of Gross Unrecognized Tax Benefits Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward [Table Text Block] Related Party Transactions [Abstract] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Axis] Related Party [Domain] Related Party [Domain] CCI Affiliated Entity [Member] Related Party Related Party [Member] Related Party [Member] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Landfills Landfill [Member] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Total services purchased Related Party Transaction, Purchases from Related Party Outstanding accounts payable Accounts Payable, Related Parties, Current Revenue from related party Revenue from Related Parties Number of leases Number Of Leases Number of related party capital lease agreements entered into. Leases monthly payments Debt Instrument, Periodic Payment Total expense charged to operations under lease agreement Capital Leases, Income Statement, Amortization Expense Landfill post-closure cost Asset Retirement Obligation, Cash Paid to Settle Accrued costs associated with post-closure obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Disaggregation of Revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Accounting Policies [Abstract] Investments under equity method of accounting Equity Method Investments Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Minimum Minimum [Member] Maximum Maximum [Member] Closure And Post Closure Costs Closure And Post Closure Costs [Member] Closure and Post-closure costs. Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Closure and post-closure costs incurrence period Closure and Post-Closure Costs Incurrence Period Closure and Post-Closure Costs Incurrence Period Estimate of inflation rate (as a percent) Inflation Rate Estimated inflation rate. Rate of asset retirement obligation (as a percent) Fair Value Inputs, Discount Rate Accretion expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Surety bond Surety Bonds Amount of surety bonds that are available for the future payment of landfill capping, closure and post-closure obligations. Letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Number of operation and management agreements entered into Number of Landfill Operation and Management Agreements Entered Into Number of Landfill Operation and Management Agreements Entered Into Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Environmental Remediation Site [Axis] Environmental Remediation Site [Axis] Environmental Remediation Site [Domain] Environmental Remediation Site [Domain] Southbridge Landfill Southbridge Landfill [Member] Southbridge landfill. Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Cash Flows from Operating Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Net income (loss) Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest net income (loss) to net cash provided by operating activities: Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization Depletion of landfill operating lease obligations Depletion Of Landfill Operating Lease Obligations This element represents the noncash expense charged against earnings to recognize the depletion of landfill operating lease obligations. Interest accretion on landfill and environmental remediation liabilities Accretion Expense, Including Asset Retirement Obligations Amortization of debt issuance costs and discounts on long-term debt Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Environmental remediation charge Environmental Remediation Expense, Including Non-cash Charges Environmental Remediation Expense, Including Non-cash Charges (Gain) loss on sale of property and equipment Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Southbridge Landfill non-cash closure charge Noncash Landfill Closure Charge The non-cash portion of the aggregate charge associated with the closure of a landfill, which includes a non-cash asset impairment charge, a non-cash project development charge, a reserve for a legal settlement and a non-cash environmental remediation charge. Southbridge Landfill insurance recovery for investing activities Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Transfered From Operating Activities to Investing Activities Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Transfered From Operating Activities to Investing Activities Non-cash expense from acquisition activities and other items Non-Cash Expense From Acquisition Activities and Other Items The aggregate amount of noncash expense associated with acquisition activities and other items recognized during the accounting period that are not disclosed separately. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both. Development project charge Noncash Project Abandonment Costs Loss on debt extinguishment Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Impairment of investments Cost-method Investments, Other than Temporary Impairment Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Changes in assets and liabilities, net of effects of acquisitions and divestitures: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Accounts receivable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Receivable Accounts payable Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable Prepaid expenses, inventories and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Prepaid Expense and Other Assets Accrued expenses and other liabilities Increase (Decrease) In Accrued Expenses, Contract Liabilities And Other Liabilities Increase (Decrease) In Accrued Expenses, Contract Liabilities And Other Liabilities Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities Cash Flows from Investing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Acquisitions, net of cash acquired Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Additions to property, plant and equipment Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Payments on landfill operating lease contracts Payments For Landfill Operating Lease The cash outflow associated with landfill operating agreements consisting of up-front or one-time payments, future minimum rental payments, including success/expansion fees, other direct costs and capping, closure and post closure costs. Proceeds from property insurance settlement Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities Proceeds from sale of property and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities Cash Flows from Financing Activities: Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Proceeds from long-term borrowings Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt and Capital Securities, Net Principal payments on long-term debt Repayments of Long-term Debt, Long-term Capital Lease Obligations, and Capital Securities Payments of debt issuance costs Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Payments of debt extinguishment costs Payment for Debt Extinguishment or Debt Prepayment Cost Proceeds from the exercise of share based awards Proceeds from Issuance of Shares under Incentive and Share-based Compensation Plans, Including Stock Options Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Including Exchange Rate Effect Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, beginning of period Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash, end of period Supplemental Disclosures of Cash Flow Information: Supplemental Cash Flow Elements [Abstract] Interest Interest Paid, Net Income taxes, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Supplemental Disclosures of Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Non-current assets acquired through long-term obligations Fair Value of Assets Acquired Business Combinations [Abstract] Revenues Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Operating income (loss) Business Acquisitions Pro Forma Operating Income Loss The pro forma operating income for the period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of the period. Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Basic earnings per common share attributable to common stockholders (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Basic weighted average shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Diluted earnings per common share attributable to common stockholders (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Debt Disclosure [Abstract] 2019 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2020 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2021 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2022 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2023 Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Long-term debt and capital lease Debt and Capital Lease Obligations SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract] Schedule of Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Assets and Liabilities Measured at Fair Value on Recurring Basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table] Schedule of Capital Leased Assets [Table] Major Property Class [Axis] Major Property Class [Axis] Major Property Class [Domain] Major Property Class [Domain] Automobile Plan Automobiles [Member] Capital Leased Assets [Line Items] Capital Leased Assets [Line Items] Maximum exposure automobile plan per individual event Maximum Exposure Self Insured Maximum exposure per individual event. Self insurance reserves Self Insurance Reserve Estimated Useful Lives of Assets Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Equity [Abstract] Summary of Stock Option Activity Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Unit and Performance Stock Unit Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Segments [Axis] Segments [Axis] Segments [Domain] Segments [Domain] Western Western Region [Member] Western region. Eastern Eastern Region [Member] Eastern region. Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition [Axis] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Solid Waste Collection Business Solid Waste Collection Business [Member] Solid Waste Collection Business [Member] Transfer Business Transfer Business [Member] Transfer Business [Member] Collection Business Collection Business [Member] Collection Business [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Number of businesses acquired Number of Businesses Acquired Intangible assets, useful life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Term Loan B Facility Term Facility due October 2023 (Term Loan B Facility) [Member] Term Facility due October 2023 (Term Loan B Facility) [Member] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest Rate Contract Interest Rate Contract [Member] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Number of interest rate derivatives held Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held Net gain on interest rat derivative agreements in accumulated other comprehensive income Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges, Pretax, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Notional amount Derivative, Notional Amount Weighted average percentage rate paid Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate Quarterly Financial Information Disclosure [Abstract] QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Covenants Not-to-Compete Noncompete Agreements [Member] Client Lists Customer Lists [Member] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Less accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Intangible amortization expenses Amortization of Intangible Assets Basis of Accounting Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounting Standards that are Adopted and Pending Adoption New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Management's Estimates and Assumptions Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Concentrations of Credit Risk Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounts Receivable - Trade, Net of Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivables, Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Allowance for Doubtful Accounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Landfill Accounting and Final Capping, Closure and Post-Closure Costs Asset Retirement Obligation [Policy Text Block] Leases Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block] Goodwill and Intangible Assets Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments in Unconsolidated Entities Investment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Business Combinations Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental Remediation Liabilities Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Self-Insurance Liabilities and Related Costs Unpaid Policy Claims and Claims Adjustment Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives and Hedging Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Contingent Liabilities Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Impairments Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Including Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Defined Benefit Pension Plan Pension and Other Postretirement Plans, Policy [Policy Text Block] Stock-Based Compensation Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Earnings per Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Assets Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting [Abstract] Summary of Financial Information by Reportable Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Summary of Revenue Attributable to Services Provided by Company Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments under Non-Cancellable Operating Leases Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block] Schedule of Environmental Remedial Liability Schedule of Environmental Loss Contingencies by Site [Table Text Block] Schedule of Total Expected Environmental Remediation Payments for Succeeding Year Schedule Of Future Environmental Remediation Payments [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of future environmental remediation payments as of the latest balance sheet presented, in aggregate and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years and thereafter. Reconciliation of Expected Aggregate Non-inflated, Undiscounted Environmental Remediation Liability to Amount Recognized in Statement of Financial Position Schedule of Reconciliation of Expected Undiscounted Liability To Actual Liability [Table Text Block] Reconciliation of the environmental remediation liability to the undiscounted environmental remediation liability as of the latest balance sheet date. Line of Credit Facility [Table] Line of Credit Facility [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Secured Debt Secured Debt [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Senior Secured Asset Based Revolving Credit Facility Due Two Thousand And Twenty [Member] Senior Secured Asset Based Revolving Credit Facility Due Two Thousand And Twenty [Member] Term Facility due 2023 (Term Loan A Facility) [Member] Term Facility due 2023 (Term Loan A Facility) [Member] Term Facility due 2023 (Term Loan A Facility) [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due 2023 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due 2023 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due 2023 [Member] Refinanced Revolving Credit Facility due October 2021; bore interest at LIBOR plus 2.75% Revolving Credit Facility due October 2021 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility due October 2021 [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Letter of Credit Letter of Credit [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Line of Credit Facility [Line Items] Aggregate principal amount issued Debt Instrument, Face Amount Credit facility maximum Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Stated interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Additional revolver capacity Additional Revolver Capacity Amount of additional optional borrowing capacity under the credit facility. Facility term Debt Instrument, Term Basis spread on variable rate (as a percent) Derivative, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Net leverage ratio Debt Instrument, Covenant Compliance, Net Leverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Covenant Compliance, Net Leverage Ratio Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Remaining capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Outstanding irrevocable letters of credit totaling Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Table] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Class of Stock [Domain] Class of Stock [Domain] Class A Common Stock Common Class A [Member] Class B Common Stock Common Class B [Member] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Earnings Per Share, Diluted, by Common Class, Including Two Class Method [Line Items] Numerator: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Denominator: Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Common stock, outstanding shares (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Shares to be issued - acquisition (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares, Contingently Issuable Unvested restricted stock (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares, Restricted Stock Effect of weighted average shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Issued, Basic Weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Dilutive effect of stock options and stock awards (in shares) Incremental Common Shares Attributable to Dilutive Effect of Share-based Payment Arrangements Antidilutive potentially issuable shares (in shares) Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount LONG TERM DEBT AND CAPITAL LEASES Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block] Undiscounted liability Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Gross Less discount, net Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Discount Liability balance - December 31, 2018 Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies 2019 Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Undiscounted, Next Twelve Months 2020 Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Undiscounted, Second Year 2021 Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Undiscounted, Third Year 2022 Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Undiscounted, Fourth Year 2023 Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Undiscounted, Fifth Year Thereafter Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Undiscounted, after Fifth Year Total Schedule of Numerator and Denominator Used in Computation of Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Deferred tax assets: Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense [Abstract] Accrued expenses and reserves Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Book over tax depreciation of property and equipment Deferred Tax Assets, Property, Plant and Equipment General business tax credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, General Business Stock awards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Compensation and Benefits, Share-based Compensation Cost Alternative minimum tax credit carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax Other Deferred Tax Assets, Other Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Less: valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance Total deferred tax assets after valuation allowance Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Deferred tax liabilities: Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross [Abstract] Amortization of intangibles Deferred Tax Liabilities, Intangible Assets Other Deferred Tax Liabilities, Other Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross Net deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Net Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Deficit Retained Earnings [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Beginning balance (in shares) Other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Issuances of Class A common stock Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuances of Class A common stock (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Stock-based compensation Adjustments to Additional Paid in Capital, Share-based Compensation, Requisite Service Period Recognition Contributions from noncontrolling interest holder Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Issuance of Class A common stock - acquisition Stock Issued During Period, Value, Acquisitions Issuance of Class A common stock - acquisition (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Acquisitions Cumulative effect of new accounting principle Cumulative Effect of New Accounting Principle in Period of Adoption Ending balance Ending balance (in shares) Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain] Allowance for Credit Loss Allowance for Credit Loss [Member] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] Balance at beginning of period Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Balance Additions—charged to expense Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions for Charges to Cost and Expense Deductions—bad debts written off, net of recoveries Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deductions Balance at end of period Revenues Revenues Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Net (loss) income Earnings per common share: Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Significant Other Observable Inputs (Level 2) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Fixed Rate Bonds Fixed Rate Bonds [Member] Fixed rate bonds. Finance Authority of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-2 due August 2035 - fixed rate interest period through 2025; bearing interest at 4.375% Finance Authority Of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-2 [Member] Finance Authority Of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-2 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility due May 2023; bearing interest at LIBOR plus 2.00% Revolving Credit Facility Due May Two Thousand Twenty Three [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due May Two Thousand Twenty Three [Member] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair value of debt Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Fair value of line of credit Lines of Credit, Fair Value Disclosure Intangible assets, useful life (no more than) Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Complete Disposal Company, Inc Complete Disposal Company, Inc [Member] Complete Disposal Company, Inc [Member] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Goodwill Goodwill [Member] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items] Deferred income taxes adjustment Deferred tax liabilities, goodwill Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill Increase in tax provision due to Tax Act Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Increase (decrease) deferred tax benefit related to continuing operations Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Change In Valuation Allowance, Income Tax Benefit For Continuing Operations Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Change In Valuation Allowance, Income Tax Benefit For Continuing Operations Deferred tax benefit of indefinite lived deferred tax liabilities Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Indefinite Lived Deferred Tax Liability, Income Tax Benefit Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Indefinite Lived Deferred Tax Liability, Income Tax Benefit Deferred federal taxes asset Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Long-term deferred state tax liability Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net Net operating loss carryforwards subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Subject to Expiration Net operating loss carryforwards not subject to expiration Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Not Subject to Expiration State net operating loss carryforwards expiry period Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, State and Local Net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic Increase (decrease) in valuation allowance Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount Deferred tax expense (benefit) due to Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, Change in Tax Rate, Deferred Tax Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Unrecognized tax benefit net of federal benefit on state issue Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate Unrecognized tax benefits Significant Change in Unrecognized Tax Benefits is Reasonably Possible, Amount of Unrecorded Benefit Uncertain tax positions, accrued interest Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Interest on Income Taxes Accrued Uncertain tax positions, penalties Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties Accrued Accrued income tax expense Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Income Tax Penalties and Interest Accrued For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four For the fiscal year ending December 31, 2023 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Collection Solid Waste Operations Collection [Member] Solid Waste Operations Collection [Member] Disposal Solid Waste Operations Disposal [Member] Solid Waste Operations Disposal [Member] Power generation Solid Waste Operations Power Generation [Member] Solid Waste Operations Power Generation [Member] Processing Solid Waste Operations Processing [Member] Solid Waste Operations Processing [Member] Solid waste operations Solid Waste Operations [Member] Solid waste operations. Organics Organics [Member] Organics. Customer solutions Customer Solutions [Member] Customer solutions. Recycling Recycling [Member] Recycling [Member] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Revenues percentage Concentration Risk, Percentage Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] Unrecognized tax benefits at beginning of period Unrecognized Tax Benefits Gross increases for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Increase Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Gross decreases for tax positions of prior years Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Prior Period Tax Positions Reductions resulting from lapse of statute of limitations Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Reduction Resulting from Lapse of Applicable Statute of Limitations Settlements Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Decrease Resulting from Settlements with Taxing Authorities Unrecognized tax benefits at end of period Receivables [Abstract] Summary of Restricted Assets Restrictions on Cash and Cash Equivalents [Table Text Block] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Designation [Domain] Designated as hedging instrument Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Statement Location [Domain] Interest expense Interest Expense [Member] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Gain (loss) on cash flow hedging Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, before Tax Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table] Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table] Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis] Multiemployer Plan Type [Axis] Multiemployer Plans Type [Domain] Multiemployer Plans Type [Domain] Multiemployer Pension Plans Multiemployer Plans, Pension [Member] Multiemployer Plan Name [Axis] Multiemployer Plan Name [Axis] Multiemployer Plan Name [Domain] Multiemployer Plan Name [Domain] New England Teamsters and Trucking Industry Pension Fund New England Teamsters and Trucking Industry Pension Fund [Member] New England Teamsters and Trucking Industry Pension Fund [Member] Multiemployer Plans [Line Items] Multiemployer Plans [Line Items] Number of plans Multiemployer Plans, Number of Plans Multiemployer Plans, Number of Plans EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] 2019 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2020 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years 2021 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2022 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2023 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Total minimum lease payments Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Unusual or Infrequent Items, or Both [Abstract] Contract settlement charge Gain (Loss) on Contract Termination Write-off deferral costs Expense From Acquisition And Financing Costs And Other Items, Write-Off Of Deferred Costs Expense From Acquisition And Financing Costs And Other Items, Write-Off Of Deferred Costs Expense from acquisition activities and other items Divestiture Acquisition Financing Costs The aggregate amount of significant divestiture and acquisition expenses, along with certain financing costs, recognized during an accounting period that are not disclosed separately. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both. Environmental remediation charge Environmental Remediation Expense Retirement Benefits [Abstract] Contributions to Plan Multiemployer Plan, Contributions by Employer Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table] Timing of Transfer of Good or Service [Axis] Timing of Transfer of Good or Service [Axis] Timing of Transfer of Good or Service [Domain] Timing of Transfer of Good or Service [Domain] Transferred at a point-in-time Transferred at Point in Time [Member] Transferred over time Transferred over Time [Member] Collection Collection [Member] Collection [Member] Landfill Landfill Revenue [Member] Landfill Revenue [Member] Transfer Transfer [Member] Transfer [Member] Recycling Recycling Revenues [Member] Recycling Revenues [Member] Transportation Transportation [Member] Transportation [Member] Landfill gas-to-energy Landfill - Gas To Energy [Member] Landfill - Gas To Energy [Member] Other Other Segments [Member] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] Total revenues Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Axis] Investment, Name [Domain] Investment, Name [Domain] Recycle Rewards Inc Recycle Rewards Inc [Member] Recycle Rewards Inc [Member] GreenerU Inc GreenerU Inc [Member] GreenerU Inc [Member] Agreen Energy LLC Agreen Energy LLC [Member] Agreen Energy LLC [Member] Bgreen Energy LLC Bgreen Energy LLC [Member] Bgreen Energy LLC [Member] Agreen And Bgreen Agreen And Bgreen [Member] Agreen And Bgreen [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Reporting units exceeded their carrying values (as a percent) Reporting Unit, Percentage of Fair Value in Excess of Carrying Amount Goodwill impairment incurred Goodwill, Impairment Loss Outstanding common stock percentage Cost Method Investment Ownership Percentage Cost method investment ownership percentage. Carrying amount of cost method investment Cost Method Investments Other current assets Other Current Assets [Member] Other non-current assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other accrued liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other Accrued Liabilities [Member] Other long-term liabilities Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net Cash flow hedge derivatives, assets Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Cash flow hedge derivatives, liabilities Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net - interest rate swaps Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net - interest rate swaps - tax provision Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Quoted Prices in Active Markets for Identical Assets (Level 1) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Significant Unobservable Inputs (Level 3) Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Assets: Assets [Abstract] Restricted investment securities - landfill closure Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Interest rate swaps Derivative Asset Total asset fair value Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities: Liabilities [Abstract] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units and Performance Stock Units Restricted Stock Restricted Stock Units And Performance Stock Units [Member] Restricted stock, restricted stock units and performance stock units. Performance Stock Units Performance Stock Unit [Member] Performance stock unit. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, and Performance Stock Units Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Outstanding, beginning balance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Outstanding, ending balance (in shares) Unvested, ending balance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Unvested, Number Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Unvested, Number Weighted Average Grant Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Outstanding, beginning balance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding, ending balance (in dollars per share) Weighted average grant price, unvested, ending balance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Unvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Unvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted average remaining contractual term, outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Terms Weighted average remaining contractual term, unvested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding Aggregate intrinsic value, unvested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Attainment level percentage Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Additional issuance if performance targets met (in shares) Additional Shares Issued Maximum Attainment Level Additional shares of Class A Common Stock potentially issuable if maximum attainment levels are met. Additional shares issued (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill, beginning balance Goodwill Acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill, ending balance ACCOUNTING CHANGES New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Term Loan Facility due May 2023; bearing interest at LIBOR plus 2.00% Term Facility Due May 2023 (Term Loan B Facility) [Member] Term Facility Due May 2023 (Term Loan B Facility) [Member] Term Loan B Facility due October 2023; bore interest at LIBOR plus 2.50% New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2014R-1 due December 2044 - fixed rate interest period through 2019; bearing interest at 3.75% Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Fourteen Due Two Thousand Forty Four [Member] Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Fourteen Due Two Thousand Forty Four [Member] New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2014R-2 due December 2044 - fixed rate interest period through 2026; bearing interest at 3.125% Revenue Bond Series Two Thousand Fourteen R Two Due Two Thousand Forty Four [Member] Revenue Bond Series Two Thousand Fourteen R Two Due Two Thousand Forty Four [Member] Finance Authority of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2005R-3 due January 2025 - fixed rate interest period through 2025; bearing interest at 5.25% Finance Authority of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2005R-3 (FAME Bonds 2005R-3) [Member] Finance Authority of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2005R-3 (FAME Bonds 2005R-3) [Member] Finance Authority of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-1 due August 2035 - fixed rate interest period through 2025; bearing interest at 5.125% Finance Authority Of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-1 [Member] Finance Authority Of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-1 [Member] Finance Authority of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-2 due August 2035 - fixed rate interest period through 2025; bearing interest at 4.375% Vermont Economic Development Authority Solid Waste Disposal Long-Term Revenue Bonds Series 2013 due April 2036 - fixed rate interest period through 2028; bearing interest at 4.625% Long Term Revenue Bond Series Two Thousand Thirteen Due Two Thousand Thirty Six [Member] Long Term Revenue Bond Series Two Thousand Thirteen Due Two Thousand Thirty Six [Member] Business Finance Authority of the State of New Hampshire Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2013 due April 2029 - fixed rate interest period through 2019; bearing interest at 4.00% Revenue Bond Series Two Thousand Thirteen Due Two Thousand Twenty Nine [Member] Revenue Bond Series Two Thousand Thirteen Due Two Thousand Twenty Nine [Member] Capital leases maturing through December 2107; bearing interest at a weighted average of 5.37% Capital Lease Obligations [Member] Notes payable maturing through June 2027; bearing interest at a weighted average of 2.97% Notes Payable [Member] Notes Payable [Member] Credit Facility Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Member] Principal amount of long-term debt and capital leases Less—unamortized discount and debt issuance costs Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net Long-term debt and capital leases less unamortized discount and debt issuance costs Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Including Current Maturities Less—current maturities of long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations, Current Long-term debt and capital leases, less current maturities Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Weighted average interest rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Unamortized discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Axis] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Domain] Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Difference between Revenue Guidance in Effect before and after Topic 606 [Member] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Adjustments for New Accounting Pronouncements [Axis] Type of Adoption [Domain] Type of Adoption [Domain] Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 Accounting Standards Update 2014-09 [Member] Revenues Gross receivables from contracts Contract with Customer, Asset, Gross, Current Contract liabilities Contract with Customer, Liability, Current Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Account receivables - trade, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $931 and $809, respectively Accounts Receivable, Net, Current Refundable income taxes Income Taxes Receivable, Current Prepaid expenses Prepaid Expense, Current Inventory Inventory, Gross Other current assets Other Assets, Current Total current assets Assets, Current Property, plant and equipment, net of accumulated depreciation and amortization of $878,701 and $811,474, respectively Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Intangible assets, net Restricted assets Cost method investments Deferred income taxes Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total assets Assets LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] CURRENT LIABILITIES: Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Current maturities of long-term debt and capital leases Accounts payable Accounts Payable, Current Accrued payroll and related expenses Employee-related Liabilities, Current Accrued interest Interest Payable, Current Current accrued capping, closure and post-closure costs Accrued Capping, Closure, Post-closure and Environmental Costs Other accrued liabilities Other Accrued Liabilities, Current Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current Long-term debt and capital leases, less current portion Accrued capping, closure and post-closure costs, less current portion Accrued Capping, Closure, Post-closure and Environmental Costs, Noncurrent Deferred income taxes Other long-term liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies STOCKHOLDERS' DEFICIT: Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Casella Waste Systems, Inc. stockholders' deficit: Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Common stock Common Stock, Value, Issued Additional paid-in capital Additional Paid in Capital, Common Stock Accumulated deficit Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit) Accumulated other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders' deficit Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit Liabilities and Equity RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Interest expense on long-term debt and capital leases Interest Expense, Debt, Excluding Amortization Letter of credit fees Letters Of Credit Fees Amount of letters of credit fees included in interest expense. Less: capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Adjustment Total interest expense Interest Expense Transfer Stations Acquisition Transfer Stations Acquisition [Member] Transfer Stations Acquisition [Member] Purchase Price: Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired [Abstract] Cash used in acquisitions, net of cash acquired Notes payable Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Notes Payable Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Notes Payable Class A common stock issued Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable Other non-cash considerations Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Other Contingent consideration and holdbacks Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Total Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Land Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Land Buildings Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Buildings Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Equipment Other liabilities, net Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Liabilities Deferred tax liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Excess purchase price to be allocated to goodwill REVENUE RECOGNITION Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Other comprehensive (loss) income, before tax: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract] Interest rate swap settlements Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Interest rate swap amounts reclassified into interest expense Unrealized (loss) gain resulting from changes in fair value of derivative instruments Unrealized gain (loss) resulting from changes in fair value of marketable securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Holding Gain (Loss) on Securities Arising During Period, before Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax Tax effect related to items of other comprehensive (loss) income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other comprehensive (loss) income, net of tax Comprehensive income (loss) Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Operating income (loss) Interest expense, net Interest Income (Expense), Nonoperating, Net Capital expenditures Payments to Acquire Productive Assets Total assets Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Interest rate swaps Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges Attributable to Parent [Member] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Domain] Reclassification Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Member] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Reclassification Adjustment out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Interest expense Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest (Benefit) provision for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net (loss) income attributable to common stockholders Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Charges Associated with Closure of Southbridge Landfill Environmental Exit Costs by Cost [Table Text Block] Federal Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations State State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Current Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Current benefit of loss carryforwards Current State Deferred Benefit Loss Carryforwards Current State Deferred Benefit Loss Carryforwards Deferred Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations (Benefit) provision for income taxes New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Table] Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Restatement adjustment Restatement Adjustment [Member] Scenario, forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-18 Accounting Standards Update 2016-18 [Member] Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 Accounting Standards Update 2016-02 [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] New Accounting Pronouncements or Change in Accounting Principle [Line Items] Reclassification of restricted cash Right-of-use asset Operating Lease, Right-of-Use Asset Lease liability Operating Lease, Liability STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Shareholders' Equity and Share-based Payments [Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Operating segments Number of Operating Segments Accounts receivable - trade, allowance for doubtful accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Property, plant and equipment, accumulated depreciation and amortization Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Common stock, authorized shares (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, issued shares (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Common stock, votes (in votes per share) Stockholders' Equity, Votes per Share Held Stockholders' Equity, Votes per Share Held FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] Summary of Quarterly Financial Information Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] BASIS OF PRESENTATION Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Obligations incurred Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Revisions in estimates Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Obligations settled Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Ending balance FINAL CAPPING, CLOSURE AND POST-CLOSURE COSTS Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule II - Valuation Accounts Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] Landfills Landfills [Member] Landfills. Depreciation expense Depreciation Amortization expense Amortization Depletion expense on operating lease contracts Land Land [Member] Landfill operating lease contracts Landfill Operating Lease [Member] Landfill Operating Lease [Member] Building and Improvements Building and Building Improvements [Member] Machinery and Equipment Machinery and Equipment [Member] Rolling Stock Rolling Stock [Member] Rolling Stock [Member] Containers Containers [Member] Property, plant and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Less: accumulated depreciation and amortization Property, plant and equipment, net Components of Property, Plant and Equipment Other Commitments [Table] Other Commitments [Table] 21E Settlement and Water System Construction Funding Agreement 21E Settlement and Water System Construction Funding Agreement [Member] 21E Settlement and Water System Construction Funding Agreement [Member] Bonds Bonds [Member] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] MADEP Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) and Casella Waste Systems [Member] Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) and Casella Waste Systems [Member] Potsdam Environmental Remediation Liability Potsdam Environmental Liability [Member] Potsdam environmental liability. Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Axis] Litigation Case [Domain] Litigation Case [Domain] Notice of Intent to Sue under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act Notice of Intent to Sue under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act [Member] Notice of Intent to Sue under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act [Member] Steadfast Insurance Company Steadfast Insurance Company [Member] Steadfast Insurance Company [Member] Employment Contracts Employment Contracts [Member] Other Commitments [Line Items] Other Commitments [Line Items] Monthly payments (up to) Payments for Rent Total rent expense under operating leases charged to operations Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Net Agreement in principle amount (up to) Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Anticipated costs Environmental Exit Costs, Anticipated Cost Risk free interest rate (as a percent) Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Discount Rate Number of storm water basins Number of Storm Water Basins Number of Storm Water Basins Payments for litigation settlement Payments for Legal Settlements Ancillary services period Ancillary Services, Period Ancillary Services, Period Litigation settlement, total cash and services Litigation Settlement, Amount Awarded to Other Party Reserve for probable loss Loss Contingency Accrual Litigation settlement, amount awarded form other party Litigation Settlement, Amount Awarded from Other Party Loss on contract termination Loss on Contract Termination Number of acres composing solid waste transfer station (in acres) Scrap Yard And Solid Waste Transfer Station Acreage of scrap yard owned by WSI. Estimate of total undiscounted costs associated with implementing the preferred remedies Undiscounted Costs Preferred Remedies Estimated undiscounted remediation costs. Remediation activities, participant share percentage Percentage Participation in Onsite Remediation Activities Percentage participation in onsite remediation activities. Number of executive officers Employment Contracts Executive Officers The number of executive officers that we have employment contracts with. Initial term of employment contract Initial Term Of Executive Employment Agreement Initial term of employment agreements. Contract extension period Contract Extension Period Contract extension period. Total annual commitments for salaries Commitment Amount Under Employment Agreement Annual salary commitments under employment agreements. Salary and bonuses payment range Contractual Obligation Payments Period Years of salary and bonus due to employee upon change in control or involuntary termination without cause. Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Market-based Performance Stock Options Performance Shares [Member] Class of Stock [Line Items] Class of Stock [Line Items] Stock Options Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding [Roll Forward] Outstanding, beginning balance (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Number Granted (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross Exercised (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period Forfeited (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period Market-based stock options vested (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Number of Shares Outstanding, ending balance (in shares) Exercisable (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Outstanding, beginning balance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price Granted (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Exercised (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Forfeited (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Forfeitures and Expirations in Period, Weighted Average Exercise Price Market-based stock options vested (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding, ending balance (in dollars per share) Exercisable (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Weighted average remaining contractual term, vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted average remaining contractual term, outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Weighted average remaining contractual term, exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate intrinsic value, outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate intrinsic value, exercisable Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Schedule of Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Table] Schedule of Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Table] Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Line Items] Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) Disclosures [Line Items] Maximum matching contribution per dollar per employee contribution Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Employer Match Per Employee, Per Dollar Contribution Defined Contribution Plan, Maximum Employer Match Per Employee, Per Dollar Contribution Maximum match per employee per calendar year Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Maximum Contribution Per Employee Per Year, Amount Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Maximum Contribution Per Employee Per Year, Amount Employer contributions vesting period Deferred Compensation Arrangement with Individual, Requisite Service Period Employer contributions Defined Contribution Plan, Employer Discretionary Contribution Amount Discount rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Discount from Market Price, Purchase Date Stock issued under stock purchase plan (in shares) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Employee Stock Purchase Plans Stock available for distribution under stock purchase plan (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant Schedule of Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Table] Schedule of Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2016 Incentive Plan 2016 Incentive Plan [Member] 2016 Incentive Plan Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Title of Individual [Axis] Title of Individual [Axis] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Non-Employee Director Non Employee Director [Member] Non Employee Director [Member] Restricted Stock Awards Restricted Stock Awards [Member] Restricted Stock Awards [Member] Stock Options Employee Stock Option [Member] Market-based Performance Stock Options Market-based Performance Stock Options [Member] Market-based Performance Stock Options [Member] Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Unit [Member] Restricted stock and restricted stock unit. Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units and Performance Stock Units Stock Options, Performance Stock Units, Restricted Stock Units And Restricted Stock [Member] Stock options, performance stock units, restricted stock units and restricted stock. Market-based Performance Stock Units Market-based Performance Stock Units [Member] Market-based Performance Stock Units [Member] Amended and Restated 1997 Employee Stock Purchase Plan Amended And Restated Nineteen Ninety Seven Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Amended And Restated Nineteen Ninety Seven Employee Stock Purchase Plan [Member] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock [Domain] Sale of Stock [Domain] Public Stock Offering Public Stock Offering [Member] Public Stock Offering [Member] Limited Partners' Capital Account [Line Items] Limited Partners' Capital Account [Line Items] Sale of stock, number of shares issued (in shares) Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Sale of stock, price per share (in dollars per share) Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Sale of stock, net proceeds Sale of Stock, Consideration Received on Transaction Vote for each share held (in votes per share) Preferred stock authorized to issue (up to) (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized Shares issued (in shares) Preferred Stock, Shares Issued Common stock, authorized shares (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Number of shares available for future grant (in shares) Options granted period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Expiration Period Options vesting period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Period Stock-based compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Aggregate intrinsic value of stock options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Weighted average fair value of market-based performance (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Expected life Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Term Risk-free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected volatility (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Expected dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Total fair value of other stock awards vested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Fair Value Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Share-based Awards Other than Options Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, weighted average period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition Tax provision (benefit) Employee Service Share Based Compensation Tax Provision From Exercise Of Stock Options Employee Service Share Based Compensation Tax Provision From Exercise Of Stock Options Income taxes associated with stock-based compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Tax Benefit from Exercise of Stock Options Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and entity information. Document Information [Table] Document Information [Table] Document Information [Line Items] Document Information [Line Items] Entity Registrant Name Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Entity Central Index Key Current Fiscal Year End Date Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Filer Category Entity Filer Category Document Type Document Type Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Period End Date Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Public Float Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding OTHER ITEMS AND CHARGES Unusual or Infrequent Items, or Both, Disclosure [Text Block] BUSINESS COMBINATIONS Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Multiemployer Defined Benefit Pension Plans Schedule of Multiemployer Plans [Table Text Block] Senior Subordinated Notes, Due February 2019; bore interest at 7.75%tes Due Two Thousand Nineteen [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes Due Two Thousand Nineteen [Member] Senior Subordinated Notes Due Two Thousand Nineteen [Member] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Purchase Price Paid for Acquisitions Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table Text Block] Schedule of Unaudited Pro forma Combined Information Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Site Contingency [Table] Site Contingency [Table] Site Contingency [Line Items] Site Contingency [Line Items] Asset impairment charge Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Project development charge Environmental remediation charge Landfill closure project charge Charlton settlement charge Legal and transaction costs Legal Fees Recovery on insurance settlement Southbridge Landfill closure charge, net Landfill Closure (Settlement) Charge, Net The aggregate (recovery) charge associated with the closure of a landfill, which is comprised of an asset impairment charge, a development project charge write-off, an environmental remediation charge, a legal settlement charge, related legal and transaction costs and a recovery on insurance settlement. A positive number is an expense and a negative number is a gain. Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Operating expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of operations Cost of Goods and Services Sold General and administration General and Administrative Expense Southbridge Landfill closure charge, net Expense from acquisition activities and other items Expense From Acquisition And Financing Costs And Other Items The aggregate amount of expense associated with acquisition activities and other items recognized during the accounting period that are not disclosed separately. Generally, these items are either unusual or infrequent, but not both. Total operating expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income (loss) Other expense (income): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest income Interest Income, Other Other income Other Nonoperating Income Other expense, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income (loss) before income taxes (Benefit) provision for income taxes Net income (loss) Less: Net loss attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Basic earnings per share attributable to common stockholders: Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] Weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares) Diluted earnings per share attributable to common stockholders: Weighted average common shares outstanding (in shares) EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS Pension and Other Postretirement Benefits Disclosure [Text Block] Furniture and Fixtures Furniture and Fixtures [Member] Property plant and equipment, estimated useful life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward] Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Accretion expense Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Charges to Expense for New Losses Obligations incurred Accrual For Environmental Loss Contingencies, Obligations Incurred Accrual For Environmental Loss Contingencies, Obligations Incurred Obligations settled Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Payments Ending balance Payments Obligations incurred RESTRICTED ASSETS Restricted Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table] Marketable Securities Accumulated Net Investment Gain (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Member] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Line Items] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] AOCI Attributable to Parent, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Other comprehensive income (loss) before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Income tax expense related to items in other comprehensive income (loss) Schedule of Activity and Balances Related to Goodwill by Reporting Segment Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Components of Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Estimated Future Amortization Expense Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Unsecured Debt Unsecured Debt [Member] New York Bonds, 2014R-1 New York Bonds [Member] New York Bonds [Member] Finance Authority of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-2 due August 2035 - fixed rate interest period through 2025 Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Fifteen Due Two Thousand Thirty Five [Member] Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Fifteen Due Two Thousand Thirty Five [Member] New Hampshire Bonds New Hampshire Bonds [Member] New Hampshire Bonds [Member] Vermont Bonds Vermont Bonds [Member] Vermont Bonds. Vermont Economic Development Authority Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds [Member] Vermont Economic Development Authority Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds [Member] Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Aggregate principal amount outstanding Long-term Debt, Gross Debt instrument, interest rate during period Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period Components of Long-Term Debt and Capital Leases Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Components of Interest Expense Interest Income and Interest Expense Disclosure [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Related to Derivative Instruments Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Schedule of Gain (Loss) On Cash Flow Hedges Schedule of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Schedule of Future Maturities of Debt Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] SEGMENT REPORTING Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Changes to Accrued Capping, Closure and Post-Closure Liabilities Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Federal statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Tax at statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount State income taxes, net of federal benefit Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Decrease in net federal deferred tax assets before valuation allowance change due to federal rate change Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount Decrease in valuation allowance by 80% of indefinite lived deferred liabilities due to US tax reform Other changes in valuation allowance, including the federal rate change in fiscal year 2017 Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Including Federal Rate Change, Amount Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance Including Federal Rate Change, Amount Non-deductible officer compensation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Officer Compensation Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Officer Compensation Deductible stock awards Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductible Stock Awards Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Deductible Stock Awards Tax credits Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Tax Credit, Amount Non-deductible expenses Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Nondeductible Expense, Amount Other, net Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Reconciling Items, Amount