Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss - USD ($) $ in Thousands	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018	Sep. 30, 2019	Sep. 30, 2018
Consolidated Statements of Comprehensive Loss [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$ 21,766	$ 16,144	$ 79,727	$ (9,702)
Change in fair value of cash flow hedge	(10,811)		(62,404)
Foreign currency translation adjustments	(55,047)	(27,598)	(46,469)	(149,057)
Comprehensive loss	(44,092)	(11,454)	(29,146)	(158,759)
Comprehensive loss attributable to the noncontrolling interest	(87)		(87)
Comprehensive loss attributable to SBA Communications Corporation	$ (44,179)	$ (11,454)	$ (29,233)	$ (158,759)