Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Abstract] Basis of Accounting Basis of Accounting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accounting Standards that are Adopted and Pending Adoption New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Accrued Final Capping, Closure and Post Closure Asset Retirement Obligation [Policy Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value of Financial Instruments Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Segment Reporting Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental Remediation Obligations [Abstract] Environmental Exit Costs by Cost Environmental Exit Costs by Cost [Table Text Block] Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract] Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss), before tax: Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Hedging activity: Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, before Tax [Abstract] Interest rate swap settlements Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Settlement on Derivatives, After Tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Settlement on Derivatives, After Tax Interest rate swap amounts reclassified into interest expense Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Unrealized gain (loss) resulting from changes in fair value of derivative instruments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Unrealized gain resulting from changes in fair value of marketable securities Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Available-for-sale Securities Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Income tax (benefit) provision related to items of other comprehensive income (loss) Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to common stockholders Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Equity [Abstract] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Instrument [Axis] Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative Contract [Domain] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Equity Component [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] 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] Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income 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 Interest Expense Income (loss) before income taxes Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest Provision (benefit) for income taxes Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net income (loss) Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Abstract] ACCRUED FINAL CAPPING, CLOSURE AND POST CLOSURE Asset Retirement Obligation Disclosure [Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Asset Retirement Obligation, Roll Forward Analysis [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Asset Retirement Obligation Obligations incurred Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Incurred Revision in estimates Asset Retirement Obligation, Revision of Estimate Accretion expense Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense Obligations settled Asset Retirement Obligation, Liabilities Settled Ending balance Document And Entity Information [Abstract] Document and entity information. Document Information [Table] Document Information [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] 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 Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Period Focus Amendment Flag Amendment Flag Trading Symbol Trading Symbol Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract] GOODWILL AND INTANGIBLE ASSETS Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] Statement [Table] Statement [Table] Common Stock Common Stock [Member] Additional Paid-In Capital Additional Paid-in Capital [Member] Accumulated Deficit Retained Earnings [Member] Comprehensive Income AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] Statement [Line Items] Statement [Line Items] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent Beginning balance (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding Other comprehensive income 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 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) STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY Shareholders' Equity and Share-based Payments [Text Block] Debt And Derivatives Disclosure [Abstract] Debt And Derivatives Disclosure [Abstract] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Axis] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] Long-term Debt, Type [Domain] 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] 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 Credit Facility [Member] Credit Facility [Member] Secured Debt Secured Debt [Member] New York State Environmental Facilities Corporation Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2014 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% 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] 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] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] 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% Term Facility due October 2023 (Term Loan B Facility) [Member] Term Facility due October 2023 (Term Loan B Facility) [Member] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Axis] Variable Rate [Domain] Variable Rate [Domain] LIBOR London Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) [Member] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument [Line Items] Long-term debt and capital lease Debt and Capital Lease Obligations 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 Non current portion of long term debt and capital lease obligation Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Basis spread on variable rate Debt Instrument, Basis Spread on Variable Rate Stated interest rate Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Weighted average interest rate Debt, Weighted Average Interest Rate Unamortized discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Income Statement [Abstract] Revenues Revenues Operating expenses: Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Cost of operations Cost of Goods and Services Sold General and administration General and Administrative Expense Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization 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. Southbridge Landfill closure (settlement) 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. Contract settlement charge Contract Settlement Charge Amount of loss recognized in the period associated with the settlement of a future obligation associated with the termination of a contract. Development project charge Noncash Project Abandonment Costs Total operating expenses Costs and Expenses Operating income (loss) Operating Income (Loss) Other expense (income): Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Interest income Interest Income, Other Loss on debt extinguishment Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt Other income Other Nonoperating Income Other expense, net Nonoperating Income (Expense) Income (loss) before income taxes Net income (loss) Basic earnings per share attributable to common stockholders: Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Basic weighted average common share outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Basic earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Diluted earnings per share attributable to common stockholders: Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Diluted weighted average shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Diluted earnings per common share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Diluted Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Schedule of Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Table] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Numerator: Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted [Abstract] Net income (loss) Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Number of shares outstanding, end of period: Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Abstract] Common stock, outstanding shares (in shares) Unvested restricted stock (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares, Contingently Issuable Effect of weighted average shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted Average Number of Shares Issued, Basic Dilutive effect of stock options and other 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 Other Items and Charges Unusual or Infrequent Items, or Both, Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract] Loss Contingencies [Table] Loss Contingencies [Table] 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] Legal Entity [Axis] Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Entity [Domain] MADEP and Casella Waste System Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) and Casella Waste Systems [Member] Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MADEP) and Casella Waste Systems [Member] 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] Range [Axis] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Range [Domain] Maximum Maximum [Member] Environmental Remediation Site [Axis] Environmental Remediation Site [Axis] Environmental Remediation Site [Domain] Environmental Remediation Site [Domain] Southbridge Landfill Southbridge Landfill [Member] Southbridge landfill. Potsdam Environmental Remediation Liability Potsdam Environmental Liability [Member] Potsdam environmental liability. Scenario [Axis] Scenario [Axis] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Scenario, Forecast Scenario, Forecast [Member] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Estimate of possible loss Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Bond period Debt Instrument, Term Amount of costs Environmental Exit Costs, Anticipated Cost Risk free interest percentage rate Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Discount Rate Number of storm water basins Number of Storm Water Basins Number of Storm Water Basins Litigation settlement, future cash payments 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 Litigation settlement received Proceeds from Insurance Settlement, Investing Activities Loss on contract termination Loss on Contract Termination Scrap yard and solid waste transfer station (in acres) Scrap Yard And Solid Waste Transfer Station Acreage of scrap yard owned by WSI. Undiscounted costs 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. Segment Reporting [Abstract] Summary of Financial Information by Reportable Segment Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Summary of Revenues Attributable to Services Provided by Company Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table Text Block] Fiscal year ending December 31, 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year Fiscal year ending December 31, 2019 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Fiscal year ending December 31, 2020 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three Fiscal year ending December 31, 2021 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four Fiscal year ending December 31, 2022 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five Thereafter Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, after Year Five Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table] 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 Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred tax liabilities, goodwill Deferred Tax Liabilities, Goodwill Federal net operating loss carryforwards Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards, Domestic Tax credit carryforward amount Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax Refundable amount Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Refundable Amount Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Refundable Amount Current income tax expense (benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax provisions 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) Business Combinations [Abstract] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] 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 Solid Waste Collection Business [Member] Solid Waste Collection Business [Member] Collection Business Collection Business [Member] Collection Business [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business Acquisition [Line Items] Number of transfer stations acquired Number of Businesses Acquired Business combination, consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Useful life of finite lived intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract] Disaggregation of Revenue Disaggregation of Revenue [Table Text Block] Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract] Number of regional operating segments Number of Operating Segments 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] 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] Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Schedule of Stock by Class [Table] Award Type [Axis] Award Type [Axis] Equity Award [Domain] Equity Award [Domain] Market-based Performance Stock Options Market-based Performance Stock Options [Member] Market-based Performance Stock Options [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] Beginning balance, outstanding (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 Ending balance, outstanding (in shares) Exercisable at end of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Number Unvested at end of period (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares Weighted Average Exercise Price Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Weighted Average Exercise Price [Abstract] Beginning balance, outstanding (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 Ending balance, outstanding (in dollars per share) Exercisable at end of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Weighted Average Exercise Price Unvested at end of period (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term (years) and Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] 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 Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term, Unvested Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Unvested, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Unvested, Weighted Average Remaining Contractual Term Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Outstanding, Intrinsic Value Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Exercisable at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercisable, Intrinsic Value Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Unvested at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Unvested, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Unvested, Aggregate Intrinsic Value Percentage of vesting of share-based compensation awards Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Issuance of additional shares (in shares) Common Stock, Capital Shares Reserved for Future Issuance Site Contingency [Table] Site Contingency [Table] Site Contingency [Line Items] Site Contingency [Line Items] Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward] Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Roll Forward] Beginning balance Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Accretion expense Accrual For Environmental Loss Contingencies, Accretion Expense Accrual For Environmental Loss Contingencies, Accretion Expense 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 BASIS OF PRESENTATION Business Description and Basis of Presentation [Text Block] Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract] Summary of Financial Assets and Liabilities at Fair Value Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Cash Flow Hedging Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Interest Rate Derivative Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest rate derivatives entered into Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held Floor interest rate received Derivative, Basis Spread on Variable Rate 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 COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Summary of Stock Option Activity Share-based Compensation, Stock Options, Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Unit and Performance-based Stock Unit Activity Schedule of Share-based Compensation, Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Units Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Changes in Balances of Each Component of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Schedule of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary of Reclassifications Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Loss Reclassification out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table Text Block] BUSINESS COMBINATIONS Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Revolving Credit Facility Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Line of Credit Line of Credit [Member] Senior Secured Asset Based Revolving Credit Facility Due Two Thousand And Twenty Three Senior Secured Asset Based Revolving Credit Facility Due Two Thousand And Twenty Three [Member] Senior Secured Asset Based Revolving Credit Facility Due Two Thousand And Twenty Three [Member] Term Facility due 2023 (Term Loan A Facility) Term Facility due 2023 (Term Loan A Facility) [Member] Term Facility due 2023 (Term Loan A Facility) [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due 2023 Revolving Credit Facility Due 2023 [Member] Revolving Credit Facility Due 2023 [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Credit Facility [Domain] Aggregate principal amount Debt Instrument, Face Amount Credit facility maximum Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Additional revolver capacity Additional Revolver Capacity Amount of additional optional borrowing capacity under the credit facility. Debt instrument, term Net leverage ratio Debt Instrument, Covenant Terms, Net Leverage Ratio Debt Instrument, Covenant Terms, Net Leverage Ratio Line of credit facility, remaining borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Remaining Borrowing Capacity Letters of credit outstanding, amount Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount EARNINGS PER SHARE Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Summary of Numerator and Denominators Used in Computation of Earnings Per Share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Unsecured Debt Unsecured Debt [Member] Finance Authority Of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2015R-2 VEDA Bonds Vermont Economic Development Authority Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds [Member] Vermont Economic Development Authority (VEDA) Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Five Rone Due Two Thousand Twenty Five Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Five Rone Due Two Thousand Twenty Five [Member] Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Five Rone Due Two Thousand Twenty Five [Member] Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Five Rtwo Due Two Thousand Twenty Five Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Five Rtwo Due Two Thousand Twenty Five [Member] Revenue Bonds Series Two Thousand Five Rtwo Due Two Thousand Twenty Five [Member] Finance Authority of Maine Solid Waste Disposal Revenue Bonds Series 2005R-3 (FAME Bonds 2005R-3) Debt instrument, interest rate during period Debt Instrument, Interest Rate During Period Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Consolidation Items [Domain] Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Eliminations Consolidation, Eliminations [Member] Recycling Recycling [Member] Recycling [Member] Other Other Segments [Member] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Operating income (loss) Total assets Assets Write off of deferred 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 Acquisition activities Expense From Acquisition And Financing Costs And Other Items, Acquisition Activities Acquisition And Financing Costs And Other Items, Acquisition Activities Asset impairment charge Impairment of Long-Lived Assets to be Disposed of Project development charge Environmental remediation charge Environmental Remediation Expense Charlton settlement charge Loss Contingency, Loss in Period Legal settlement Legal Fees Recovery on insurance settlement Landfill Closure (Settlement) Charge, Net Transfer Stations Acquisition Transfer Stations Acquisition [Member] Transfer Stations Acquisition [Member] Purchase Price: Business Combination, Consideration Transferred [Abstract] Cash paid for acquisitions Payments to Acquire Businesses, Gross Notes payable Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Notes Payable Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Notes Payable Common stock Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Equity Interests Issued and Issuable Other non-cash consideration Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Other Contingent consideration and holdbacks Business Combination, Consideration Transferred, Liabilities Incurred Total Allocated as follows: Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Building Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Buildings Equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Equipment Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill 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 Fair value of assets acquired and liabilities assumed Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net Excess purchase price allocated to goodwill Goodwill FAIR VALUE OF FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block] 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) 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 Diluted earnings per share attributable to common stockholders (in dollars per share) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Intangible amortization expenses Amortization of Intangible Assets Summary of Changes to Accrued Capping, Closure and Post-Closure Liabilities Schedule of Change in Asset Retirement Obligation [Table Text Block] Schedule of Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Table] Schedule of Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Table] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plan Name [Domain] 2016 Plan 2016 Incentive Plan [Member] 2016 Incentive Plan 2006 Incentive Plan Two Thousand Six Stock Incentive Plan [Member] Two thousand six stock incentive plan. 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] Weighted Average Weighted Average [Member] Stock Options Employee Stock Option [Member] Restricted Stock, Restricted Stock Units, and Performance-Based Stock Units Restricted Stock Restricted Stock Units And Performance Stock Units [Member] Restricted stock, restricted stock units and performance stock units. Restricted Stock Awards Restricted Stock Awards [Member] Restricted Stock Awards [Member] Restricted Stock and Restricted Stock Unit Restricted Stock And Restricted Stock Unit [Member] Restricted stock and restricted stock unit. Performance-Based Stock Units Performance Stock Unit [Member] Performance stock unit. 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] Limited Partners' Capital Account [Line Items] Limited Partners' Capital Account [Line Items] Common stock, authorized shares (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Common stock, additional authorized shares (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Additional Shares Authorized Number of shares available for future grant (in shares) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant 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 options exercised Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Exercises in Period, Intrinsic Value Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Not yet Recognized, Stock Options Unrecognized stock-based compensation expense, weighted average period Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition 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 Weighted average fair value (in dollars per share) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Risk free interest rate Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate Expected volatility Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate Dividend yield Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Disaggregation of Revenue [Table] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Axis] Products and Services [Domain] Products and Services [Domain] Collection Collection [Member] Collection [Member] Landfill Landfill Revenue [Member] Landfill Revenue [Member] Transfer Transfer [Member] Transfer [Member] Customer solutions Customer Solutions [Member] Customer solutions. Recycling Recycling Revenues [Member] Recycling Revenues [Member] Organics Organics [Member] Organics. Transportation Transportation [Member] Transportation [Member] Landfill gas-to-energy Landfill - Gas To Energy [Member] Landfill - Gas To Energy [Member] 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] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Disaggregation of Revenue [Line Items] Revenue from contracts with customers Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax Statement of Financial Position [Abstract] ASSETS Assets [Abstract] CURRENT ASSETS: Assets, Current [Abstract] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Accounts receivable - trade, net of allowance for doubtful accounts of $949 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 Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Goodwill Intangible assets, net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Restricted assets Restricted Cash and Investments, Noncurrent Cost method investments Cost Method Investments Deferred income taxes Deferred Income Tax Assets, Net Other non-current assets Other Assets, Noncurrent Total 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 Contract liabilities Contract with Customer, Liability, 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 Deferred Income Tax Liabilities, Net 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 income Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Total stockholders' deficit Total liabilities and stockholders' deficit Liabilities and Equity 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, par value (in dollars per share) Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share Common stock, authorized shares (in shares) Common Stock, Shares Authorized Common stock, issued shares (in shares) Common Stock, Shares, Issued Votes per share held Stockholders' Equity, Votes per Share Held Stockholders' Equity, Votes per Share Held Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles Schedule of New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table Text Block] Measurement Basis [Axis] Measurement Basis [Axis] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Fair Value Measurement [Domain] Portion at Fair Value Measurement Portion at Fair Value Measurement [Member] Fair Value Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Carrying Value Reported Value Measurement [Member] Fixed Rate Bonds Fixed Rate Bonds [Member] Fixed rate bonds. 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] Fair value of fixed rate debt Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Carrying value of revolver debt Lines of Credit, Fair Value Disclosure Summary of Components of Long-Term Debt and Capital Leases by Debt Instrument Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Related to Derivative Instruments Schedule of Cash Flow Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Schedule of Cash Flow Hedges Included in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] ACCOUNTING CHANGES New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Summary 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] Obligations settled LONG-TERM DEBT Debt And Derivatives Disclosure [Text Block] Debt And Derivatives Disclosure [Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] 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 at beginning of period (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 Class A Common Stock 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 at end of period (in shares) Unvested, at end of period (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 Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value [Abstract] Outstanding at beginning of period (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 Class A Common Stock 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 at end of period (in dollars per share) Unvested at end of period (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 (in years) and Aggregate Intrinsic Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] 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 at end of period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Outstanding Aggregate Intrinsic Value, Unvested at end of period 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 Performance-based stock units, percentage of attainment level Number of performance-based stock units (in shares) Additional Shares Issued Maximum Attainment Level Additional shares of Class A Common Stock potentially issuable if maximum attainment levels are met. Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] Revenue from External Customers by Products and Services [Table] 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. Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] Revenue from External Customer [Line Items] 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 SEGMENT REPORTING Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] 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] 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] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Restricted investment securities - landfill closure Landfill [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] Assets: Interest rate swaps Derivative Asset Restricted investment securities - landfill closure Total Assets, Fair Value Disclosure Liabilities: Liabilities [Abstract] Interest rate swaps Interest Rate Derivative Liabilities, at Fair Value Summary of Environmental Liability Associated with Potsdam Schedule of Environmental Loss Contingencies by Site [Table Text Block] Schedule of Activity and Balances Related to Goodwill by Operating Segment Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Summary of Intangible Assets by Intangible Asset Type Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Summary of Intangible Amortization Expense Estimated Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table 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 Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] AOCI Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Net of Tax [Roll Forward] Other comprehensive income before reclassifications Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), before Reclassifications, Net of Tax Amounts reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income Reclassification from Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Current Period, Net of Tax Income tax expense related to items of other comprehensive income Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Tax Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax INCOME TAXES Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] 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 income Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] 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 income, interest rate swaps Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, before Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income, interest rate swaps - tax provision Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Tax Accumulated other comprehensive income REVENUE RECOGNITION Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Complete Acquisition Complete Acquisition [Member] Complete Acquisition [Member] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill [Roll Forward] Goodwill, beginning balance Acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill, ending balance Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract] 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 Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by operating activities Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] 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 discount on long-term debt Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs and Discounts Stock-based compensation Share-based Compensation Gain 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. 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, contract liabilities 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 sale of property and equipment Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from property insurance settlement 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 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 and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash paid during the period for: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Interest Interest Paid, Net Income taxes, net of refunds Income Taxes Paid, Net Supplemental Disclosure of Non-Cash Investing and Financing Activities: Cash Flow, Noncash Investing and Financing Activities Disclosure [Abstract] Non-current assets obtained through long-term obligations Fair Value of Assets Acquired Contingent consideration from business combinations Business Combination, Contingent Consideration, Liability Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Table] 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] Adjustments 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] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] Revenue, Initial Application Period Cumulative Effect Transition [Line Items] Revenues Revenue recognized Contract with Customer, Performance Obligation Satisfied in Previous Period Gross receivables from contracts Contract with Customer, Asset, Gross, Current