Note 9 - Investments in Unconsolidated Land Development and Homebuilding Joint Ventures (Detail) - Combined Balance Sheets for Unconsolidated Land Development and Homebuilding Joint Ventures (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Jun. 30, 2012	Dec. 31, 2011
Assets:
Cash	$ 15,988	$ 24,155
Inventories	247,162	230,571
Other assets	9,676	11,190
Total assets	272,826	265,916
Liabilities and Equity:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	19,608	21,190
Standard Pacific equity	77,670	77,259
Other members' equity	175,548	167,467
Total liabilities and equity	272,826	265,916
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets	$ 85,465	$ 81,807