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	Mar. 31, 2013	Dec. 31, 2012
Assets:
Cash	$ 12,107	$ 15,627
Inventories	147,942	129,477
Other assets	10,673	10,783
Total assets	170,722	155,887
Liabilities and Equity:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	5,401	5,796
Non-recourse debt	16,410
Standard Pacific equity	50,183	51,173
Other members' equity	98,728	98,918
Total liabilities and equity	170,722	155,887
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets	$ 53,024	$ 52,443