Change in Fair Value for Level 3 Derivatives (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items]
Beginning balance	$ 1,187	$ 3,506
Realized gains included in earnings		(2,234)
Unrealized gains included in AOCL	48	673
Ending balance	$ 1,235	$ 1,945

This element represents total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3), which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity.

No definition available.

Name:	wcn_FairValueMeasurementWithUnobservableInputsReconciliationRecurringBasisAssetsAndLiabilitiesGainLossIncludedInOtherComprehensiveIncome
Namespace Prefix:	wcn_
Data Type:	xbrli:monetaryItemType
Balance Type:	debit
Period Type:	duration