Partners' Capital (Ferrellgas Declared Cash Distribution) (Details) (USD $) In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended
	Jan. 31, 2012
Ferrell Companies [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Amounts expected to be paid to related parties	$ 10,735
FCI Trading Corp. [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Amounts expected to be paid to related parties	98
Ferrell Propane, Inc. [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Amounts expected to be paid to related parties	26
James E. Ferrell [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Amounts expected to be paid to related parties	2,179
General Partner [Member]
Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner [Line Items]
Amounts expected to be paid to related parties	$ 399