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	Mar. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Assets:
Cash	$ 33,270	$ 29,472
Inventories	193,740	197,727
Other assets	13,492	10,372
Total assets	240,502	237,571
Liabilities and Equity:
Accounts payable and accrued liabilities	15,010	16,173
Non-recourse debt	30,000	30,000
Standard Pacific equity	55,545	54,347
Other members' equity	139,947	137,051
Total liabilities and equity	240,502	237,571
Investments in unconsolidated joint ventures reflected in the accompanying condensed consolidated balance sheets	$ 51,362	$ 50,111