Note 9 - Investments in Unconsolidated Land Development and Homebuilding Joint Ventures (Details) - Combined Balance Sheets for Unconsolidated Land Development and Homebuilding Joint Ventures (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 30, 2014	Dec. 31, 2013
Assets:
Cash	$ 32,299	$ 37,884
Inventories	191,807	211,929
Other assets	10,307	8,600
Total assets	234,413	258,413
Liabilities and Equity:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	17,346	20,496
Non-recourse debt	30,000	30,000
Standard Pacific equity	52,759	66,363
Other members' equity	134,308	141,554
Total liabilities and equity	234,413	258,413
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets	$ 47,922	$ 66,054