Document and Entity Information - USD ($) $ in Billions |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Feb. 15, 2016 |
Jun. 30, 2015 |
|
| Entity Information [Line Items] | |||
| Entity Registrant Name | CROWN CASTLE INTERNATIONAL CORP | ||
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001051470 | ||
| Current Fiscal Year End Date | --12-31 | ||
| Entity Filer Category | Large Accelerated Filer | ||
| Document Type | 10-K | ||
| Document Period End Date | Dec. 31, 2015 | ||
| Document Fiscal Year Focus | 2015 | ||
| Document Fiscal Period Focus | FY | ||
| Amendment Flag | false | ||
| Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding | 333,768,610 | ||
| Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer | Yes | ||
| Entity Voluntary Filers | No | ||
| Entity Current Reporting Status | Yes | ||
| Entity Public Float | $ 26.6 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition If the value is true, then the document is an amendment to previously-filed/accepted document. No definition available.
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- Definition End date of current fiscal year in the format --MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition This is focus fiscal period of the document report. For a first quarter 2006 quarterly report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, the first fiscal quarter should be given as the fiscal period focus. Values: FY, Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, H1, H2, M9, T1, T2, T3, M8, CY. No definition available.
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- Definition This is focus fiscal year of the document report in CCYY format. For a 2006 annual report, which may also provide financial information from prior periods, fiscal 2006 should be given as the fiscal year focus. Example: 2006. No definition available.
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- Definition The end date of the period reflected on the cover page if a periodic report. For all other reports and registration statements containing historical data, it is the date up through which that historical data is presented. If there is no historical data in the report, use the filing date. The format of the date is CCYY-MM-DD. No definition available.
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- Definition The type of document being provided (such as 10-K, 10-Q, 485BPOS, etc). The document type is limited to the same value as the supporting SEC submission type, or the word "Other". No definition available.
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- Definition A unique 10-digit SEC-issued value to identify entities that have filed disclosures with the SEC. It is commonly abbreviated as CIK. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Indicate number of shares or other units outstanding of each of registrant's classes of capital or common stock or other ownership interests, if and as stated on cover of related periodic report. Where multiple classes or units exist define each class/interest by adding class of stock items such as Common Class A [Member], Common Class B [Member] or Partnership Interest [Member] onto the Instrument [Domain] of the Entity Listings, Instrument. No definition available.
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- Definition Indicate "Yes" or "No" whether registrants (1) have filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that registrants were required to file such reports), and (2) have been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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- Definition Indicate whether the registrant is one of the following: (1) Large Accelerated Filer, (2) Accelerated Filer, (3) Non-accelerated Filer, (4) Smaller Reporting Company (Non-accelerated) or (5) Smaller Reporting Accelerated Filer. Definitions of these categories are stated in Rule 12b-2 of the Exchange Act. This information should be based on the registrant's current or most recent filing containing the related disclosure. No definition available.
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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- Definition State aggregate market value of voting and non-voting common equity held by non-affiliates computed by reference to price at which the common equity was last sold, or average bid and asked price of such common equity, as of the last business day of registrant's most recently completed second fiscal quarter. The public float should be reported on the cover page of the registrants form 10K. No definition available.
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- Definition The exact name of the entity filing the report as specified in its charter, which is required by forms filed with the SEC. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is not required to file reports pursuant to Section 13 or Section 15(d) of the Act. No definition available.
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- Definition Indicate "Yes" or "No" if the registrant is a well-known seasoned issuer, as defined in Rule 405 of the Securities Act. Is used on Form Type: 10-K, 10-Q, 8-K, 20-F, 6-K, 10-K/A, 10-Q/A, 20-F/A, 6-K/A, N-CSR, N-Q, N-1A. No definition available.
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- Definition Sum of the carrying amounts of the intangible assets that arise from site rental contracts and customer relationships, as of the balance sheet date, net of accumulated amortization. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of liabilities incurred (and for which invoices have typically been received) and payable to vendors for goods and services received that are used in an entity's business. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount due from customers or clients, within one year of the balance sheet date (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer), for goods or services (including trade receivables) that have been delivered or sold in the normal course of business, reduced to the estimated net realizable fair value by an allowance established by the entity of the amount it deems uncertain of collection. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Excess of issue price over par or stated value of the entity's capital stock and amounts received from other transactions involving the entity's stock or stockholders. Includes adjustments to additional paid in capital. Some examples of such adjustments include recording the issuance of debt with a beneficial conversion feature and certain tax consequences of equity instruments awarded to employees. Use this element for the aggregate amount of additional paid-in capital associated with common and preferred stock. For additional paid-in capital associated with only common stock, use the element additional paid in capital, common stock. For additional paid-in capital associated with only preferred stock, use the element additional paid in capital, preferred stock. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are recognized. Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all assets that are expected to be realized in cash, sold, or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Assets are probable future economic benefits obtained or controlled by an entity as a result of past transactions or events. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount classified as assets attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Excludes cash and cash equivalents within disposal group and discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Represents the caption on the face of the balance sheet to indicate that the entity has entered into (1) purchase or supply arrangements that will require expending a portion of its resources to meet the terms thereof, and (2) is exposed to potential losses or, less frequently, gains, arising from (a) possible claims against a company's resources due to future performance under contract terms, and (b) possible losses or likely gains from uncertainties that will ultimately be resolved when one or more future events that are deemed likely to occur do occur or fail to occur. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable common stock (or common stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable common shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of short-term debt and current maturity of long-term debt and capital lease obligations due within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition For a classified balance sheet, the cumulative difference between the rental income or payments required by a lease agreement and the rental income or expense recognized on a straight-line basis, or other systematic and rational basis more representative of the time pattern in which use or benefit is granted or derived from the leased property, expected to be recognized in income or expense, by the lessor or lessee, respectively, more than one year after the balance sheet date. Such receivable is reduced by allowances attributable to, for instance, credit risk associated with a lessee. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The carrying amount of consideration received or receivable as of the balance sheet date on potential earnings that were not recognized as revenue in conformity with GAAP, and which are expected to be recognized as such within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, including sales, license fees, and royalties, but excluding interest income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after accumulated impairment loss of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of [accrued] interest payable on all forms of debt, including trade payables, that has been incurred and is unpaid. Used to reflect the current portion of the liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Sum of the carrying amounts as of the balance sheet date of all liabilities that are recognized. Liabilities are probable future sacrifices of economic benefits arising from present obligations of an entity to transfer assets or provide services to other entities in the future. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of liabilities and equity items, including the portion of equity attributable to noncontrolling interests, if any. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition Total obligations incurred as part of normal operations that are expected to be paid during the following twelve months or within one business cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount classified as liabilities attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of long-term debt and capital lease obligation due after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which is directly or indirectly attributable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (that is, noncontrolling interest, previously referred to as minority interest). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of current assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Current assets are expected to be realized or consumed within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The net carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of other indefinite-lived and finite-lived intangible assets that are not separately presented on the statement of financial position. No definition available.
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- Definition Aggregate carrying amount of current liabilities (due within one year or within the normal operating cycle if longer) not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Includes costs that are statutory in nature, are incurred on contractual obligations, or accumulate over time and for which invoices have not yet been received or will not be rendered and of liabilities not separately disclosed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Aggregate par or stated value of issued nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer). This item includes treasury stock repurchased by the entity. Note: elements for number of nonredeemable preferred shares, par value and other disclosure concepts are in another section within stockholders' equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of asset related to consideration paid in advance for costs that provide economic benefits within a future period of one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount after accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Excludes compensating balance arrangements that are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the balance sheet. For a classified balance sheet represents the current portion only (the noncurrent portion has a separate concept); there is a separate and distinct element for unclassified presentations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The cumulative amount of the reporting entity's undistributed earnings or deficit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Total of all stockholders' equity (deficit) items, net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity which are attributable to the parent. The amount of the economic entity's stockholders' equity attributable to the parent excludes the amount of stockholders' equity which is allocable to that ownership interest in subsidiary equity which is not attributable to the parent (noncontrolling interest, minority interest). This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of stockholders' equity (deficit), net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity, attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests. Amount excludes temporary equity. Alternate caption for the concept is permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) - USD ($) |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
|---|---|---|
| Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, current | $ 9,574,000 | $ 10,037,000 |
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share (dollars per share) | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 |
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized | 20,000,000 | 20,000,000 |
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, shares issued | 9,775,000 | 9,775,000 |
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, shares outstanding | 9,775,000 | 9,775,000 |
| Mandatory redemption and aggregate liquidation value, 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock | $ 977,500,000 | $ 977,500,000 |
| Common stock, par value (dollars per share) | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 |
| Common stock, shares authorized | 600,000,000 | 600,000,000 |
| Common stock, shares issued | 333,771,660 | 333,856,632 |
| Common stock, shares outstanding | 333,771,660 | 333,856,632 |
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- Definition A valuation allowance for trade and other receivables due to an Entity within one year (or the normal operating cycle, whichever is longer) that are expected to be uncollectible. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Face amount or stated value per share of common stock. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The maximum number of common shares permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Total number of common shares of an entity that have been sold or granted to shareholders (includes common shares that were issued, repurchased and remain in the treasury). These shares represent capital invested by the firm's shareholders and owners, and may be all or only a portion of the number of shares authorized. Shares issued include shares outstanding and shares held in the treasury. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Number of shares of common stock outstanding. Common stock represent the ownership interest in a corporation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Value of the difference between preference in liquidation and the par or stated values of the preferred shares. No definition available.
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- Definition Face amount or stated value per share of preferred stock nonredeemable or redeemable solely at the option of the issuer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The maximum number of nonredeemable preferred shares (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) permitted to be issued by an entity's charter and bylaws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total number of nonredeemable preferred shares (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) issued to shareholders (includes related preferred shares that were issued, repurchased, and remain in the treasury). May be all or portion of the number of preferred shares authorized. Excludes preferred shares that are classified as debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Aggregate share number for all nonredeemable preferred stock (or preferred stock redeemable solely at the option of the issuer) held by stockholders. Does not include preferred shares that have been repurchased. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||
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Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
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| Net revenues: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Site rental | $ 3,018,413 | $ 2,866,613 | $ 2,371,380 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Network services and other | 645,438 | 672,143 | 494,371 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net revenues | 3,663,851 | 3,538,756 | 2,865,751 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Costs of Operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Site rental | [1] | 963,869 | 906,152 | 686,873 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Network services and other | [1] | 357,557 | 400,454 | 304,144 | |||||||||||||||||||
| General and administrative | 310,921 | 257,296 | 213,519 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Asset write-down charges | 33,468 | 14,246 | 13,595 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Acquisition and integration costs | 15,678 | 34,145 | 25,574 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Depreciation, amortization and accretion | 1,036,178 | 985,781 | 741,342 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total operating expenses | 2,717,671 | 2,598,074 | 1,985,047 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating income (loss) | 946,180 | 940,682 | 880,704 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs | (527,128) | (573,291) | (589,630) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | (4,157) | [2] | (44,629) | [3] | (37,127) | [4] | |||||||||||||||||
| Interest income | 1,906 | 315 | 956 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Other income (expense) | 57,028 | 11,993 | (3,902) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes | 473,829 | 335,070 | 251,001 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Benefit (provision) for income taxes | 51,457 | 11,244 | (191,000) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent | 525,286 | 346,314 | 60,001 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent | [6],[7] | 19,690 | [5] | 52,460 | [5] | 33,900 | |||||||||||||||||
| Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax | 979,359 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax and Gain (Loss) on Disposal | 999,049 | 52,460 | 33,900 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (loss) from continuing operations | 1,524,335 | 398,774 | 93,901 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Less: Net income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest | 3,343 | 8,261 | 3,790 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders | 1,520,992 | 390,513 | 90,111 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends on preferred stock | (43,988) | (43,988) | (11,363) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders | 1,477,004 | 346,525 | 78,748 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) from continuing operations | 1,524,335 | 398,774 | 93,901 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative instruments, net of taxes | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest rate swaps reclassified into results of operations, net of taxes | 18,725 | 63,148 | 82,043 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign currency translation adjustments | (14,137) | (25,432) | (45,714) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Amounts reclassified into discontinued operations for foreign currency translation adjustments | (25,678) | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total other comprehensive income (loss) | [8] | (21,090) | 37,716 | 36,329 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Comprehensive income (loss) | 1,503,245 | 436,490 | 130,230 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Less: Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest | 0 | 6,545 | 1,940 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders | $ 1,503,245 | $ 429,945 | $ 128,290 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basic (in dollars per share) | $ 4.44 | $ 1.04 | $ 0.26 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ 4.42 | $ 1.04 | $ 0.26 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Weighted-average common shares outstanding (in thousands): | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basic (in shares) | 333,002 | 332,302 | 298,083 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted (in shares) | 334,062 | 333,265 | 299,293 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends/distributions declared per share | $ 3.35 | $ 1,870.00 | $ 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Discontinued Operations [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basic (in dollars per share) | 2.99 | 0.13 | 0.10 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ 2.98 | $ 0.13 | $ 0.10 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Continuing Operations [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Costs of Operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders | $ 481,298 | $ 302,326 | $ 48,638 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share: | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basic (in dollars per share) | $ 1.45 | $ 0.91 | $ 0.16 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ 1.44 | $ 0.91 | $ 0.16 | ||||||||||||||||||||
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition This element represents acquisition and integration related costs incurred to effect a business combination which costs have been expensed during the period. Such costs include finder's fees; advisory, legal, accounting, valuation, and other professional or consulting fees; general administrative costs; integration costs; and may include costs of registering and issuing debt and equity securities. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amounts reclassified into discontinued operations for foreign currency translation adjustments No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of income (loss) from a disposal group, net of income tax and related net gain (loss) on discontinued operations. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cost of borrowed funds and the amortization of interest rate swaps accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of write-down of assets recognized in the income statement. Includes, but is not limited to, losses from tangible assets, intangible assets and goodwill. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate dividends declared during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of increase (decrease) in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from net income and other comprehensive income, attributable to parent entity. Excludes changes in equity resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of increase (decrease) in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from net income and other comprehensive income. Excludes changes in equity resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total costs related to services rendered by an entity during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total costs of sales and operating expenses for the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The aggregate net amount of depreciation, amortization, and accretion recognized during an accounting period. As a noncash item, the net amount is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of expense incurred and directly related to generating revenue from leased and rented property or equipment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of gain (loss) not previously recognized resulting from the disposal of a discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Difference between the fair value of payments made and the carrying amount of debt which is extinguished prior to maturity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to the parent. Also defined as revenue less expenses and taxes from ongoing operations before extraordinary items but after deduction of those portions of income or loss from continuing operations that are allocable to noncontrolling interests. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income or expense before Income or Loss from equity method investments, income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of income (loss) from a discontinued operation attributable to the parent. Includes, but is not limited to, the income (loss) from operations during the phase-out period, gain (loss) on disposal, gain (loss) for reversal of write-down (write-down) to fair value, less cost to sell, and adjustments to a prior period gain (loss) on disposal. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before accretion (amortization) of purchase discount (premium) of interest income on nonoperating securities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Net income after adjustments for dividends on preferred stock (declared in the period) and/or cumulative preferred stock (accumulated for the period). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The total amount of revenue recognized for the period from operating leases, including minimum lease revenue, contingent revenue, percentage revenue and sublease revenue. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax and reclassification adjustments of gain (loss) on foreign currency translation adjustments, foreign currency transactions designated and effective as economic hedges of a net investment in a foreign entity and intra-entity foreign currency transactions that are of a long-term-investment nature. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax and reclassification adjustments of other comprehensive income (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of other comprehensive income (loss) attributable to noncontrolling interests. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of reclassification adjustment from accumulated other comprehensive income of accumulated gain (loss) realized from derivative instruments designated and qualifying as the effective portion of cash flow hedges and an entity's share of an equity investee's deferred hedging gain (loss). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The net amount of other income and expense amounts, the components of which are not separately disclosed on the income statement, resulting from ancillary business-related activities (that is, excluding major activities considered part of the normal operations of the business) also known as other nonoperating income (expense) recognized for the period. Such amounts may include: (a) dividends, (b) interest on securities, (c) net gains or losses on securities, (d) unusual costs, (e) gains or losses on foreign exchange transactions, and (f) miscellaneous other income and expense items. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The aggregate value of preferred stock dividends and other adjustments necessary to derive net income apportioned to common stockholders. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The consolidated profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, including the portion attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total revenue from sale of goods and services rendered during the reporting period, in the normal course of business, reduced by sales returns and allowances, and sales discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate revenue during the period from services rendered in the normal course of business, after deducting allowances and discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The aggregate total costs related to selling a firm's product and services, as well as all other general and administrative expenses. Direct selling expenses (for example, credit, warranty, and advertising) are expenses that can be directly linked to the sale of specific products. Indirect selling expenses are expenses that cannot be directly linked to the sale of specific products, for example telephone expenses, Internet, and postal charges. General and administrative expenses include salaries of non-sales personnel, rent, utilities, communication, etc. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The components of interest expense representing the non-cash expenses against earnings in the period including amortization of deferred financing costs, interest rate swaps, adjustments on long-term debt and other non-cash interest. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of realized gain (loss) recognized in earnings in the period from the increase (decrease) in fair value of foreign currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Realized Gain (loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of write-down of assets recognized in the income statement. Includes, but is not limited to, losses from tangible assets, intangible assets and goodwill. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition For the entity and the disposal group, cash includes currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. It also includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits in that the Entity may deposit additional funds at any time and also effectively may withdraw funds at any time without prior notice or penalty. Cash equivalents, excluding items classified as marketable securities, include short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash, and so near their maturity that they present minimal risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Generally, only investments with original maturities of three months or less qualify under that definition. Original maturity means original maturity to the entity holding the investment. For example, both a three-month US Treasury bill and a three-year Treasury note purchased three months from maturity qualify as cash equivalents. However, a Treasury note purchased three years ago does not become a cash equivalent when its remaining maturity is three months. Compensating balance arrangements that do not legally restrict the withdrawal or usage of cash amounts may be reported as Cash and Cash Equivalents, while legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits are not generally reported as cash and cash equivalents. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash inflow (outflow) of investing activities of discontinued operations. Investing activity cash flows include making and collecting loans and acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments and property, plant, and equipment and other productive assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash inflow (outflow) of operating activities of discontinued operations. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value not defined as investing or financing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The aggregate net amount of depreciation, amortization, and accretion recognized during an accounting period. As a noncash item, the net amount is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) from the effect of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalent balances held in foreign currencies. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Difference between the fair value of payments made and the carrying amount of debt which is extinguished prior to maturity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to the parent. Also defined as revenue less expenses and taxes from ongoing operations before extraordinary items but after deduction of those portions of income or loss from continuing operations that are allocable to noncontrolling interests. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Change in recurring obligations of a business that arise from the acquisition of merchandise, materials, supplies and services used in the production and sale of goods and services. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in interest payable, which represents the amount owed to note holders, bond holders, and other parties for interest earned on loans or credit extended to the reporting entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other assets used in operating activities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. May include changes in other current assets, other noncurrent assets, or a combination of other current and noncurrent assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in other liabilities used in operating activities not separately disclosed in the statement of cash flows. May include changes in other current liabilities, other noncurrent liabilities, or a combination of other current and noncurrent liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The increase (decrease) during the reporting period in the total amount due within one year (or one operating cycle) from all parties, associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The increase (decrease) in cash associated with the entity's continuing operating, investing, and financing activities. While for technical reasons this element has no balance attribute, the default assumption is a debit balance consistent with its label. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Increase (decrease) in cash associated with the entity's discontinued operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash inflow (outflow) from financing activities, including discontinued operations. Financing activity cash flows include obtaining resources from owners and providing them with a return on, and a return of, their investment; borrowing money and repaying amounts borrowed, or settling the obligation; and obtaining and paying for other resources obtained from creditors on long-term credit. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash inflow (outflow) from investing activities, including discontinued operations. Investing activity cash flows include making and collecting loans and acquiring and disposing of debt or equity instruments and property, plant, and equipment and other productive assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash inflow (outflow) from operating activities, including discontinued operations. Operating activity cash flows include transactions, adjustments, and changes in value not defined as investing or financing activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Other income (expense) included in net income that results in no cash inflows or outflows in the period. Includes noncash adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to cash provided by (used in) operating activities that are not separately disclosed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The net cash outflow or inflow from other investing activities. This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash outflow to reacquire common stock during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash outflow in the form of ordinary dividends to common shareholders of the parent entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash outflow in the form of ordinary dividends to preferred shareholders of the parent entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash outflow for loan and debt issuance costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash outflow associated with the acquisition of a business, net of the cash acquired from the purchase. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash outflow for purchases of and capital improvements on property, plant and equipment (capital expenditures), software, and other intangible assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash inflow from a debt initially having maturity due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Proceeds from issuance of capital stock which provides for a specific dividend that is paid to the shareholders before any dividends to common stockholders and which takes precedence over common stockholders in the event of liquidation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash inflow from the issuance of common stock, preferred stock, treasury stock, stock options, and other types of equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash inflow from contractual arrangement with the lender, including but not limited to, letter of credit, standby letter of credit and revolving credit arrangements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The net cash inflow or outflow from cash and cash items that are not available for withdrawal or usage. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of cash outflow for payment of an obligation from a lender, including but not limited to, letter of credit, standby letter of credit and revolving credit arrangements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash outflow for debt initially having maturity due after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash outflow for the payment of other borrowing not otherwise defined in the taxonomy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The aggregate amount of noncash, equity-based employee remuneration. This may include the value of stock or unit options, amortization of restricted stock or units, and adjustment for officers' compensation. As noncash, this element is an add back when calculating net cash generated by operating activities using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Consolidated Statement of Convertible Preferred Stock and Equity - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
Total |
4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock |
Common Stock [Member] |
Additional Paid-in Capital |
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments |
Derivative Instruments |
Dividends/Distributions in Excess of Earnings |
Noncontrolling Interest |
AOCI Attributable to Parent [Member] |
4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock |
4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock
Additional Paid-in Capital
|
Common Stock [Member] |
Common Stock [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital
|
Discontinued Operations [Member] |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||||||||||
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, shares outstanding | 0 | |||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax | $ (61,791) | |||||||||||||||||
| Balance, value at Dec. 31, 2012 | 2,951,264 | $ 0 | $ 2,932 | $ 5,623,595 | $ 102,125 | $ (163,916) | $ (2,625,990) | $ 12,518 | ||||||||||
| Balance, (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2012 | 293,164,786 | |||||||||||||||||
| Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity, net of forfeitures, value | 39,030 | $ 9 | 39,021 | |||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity, net of forfeitures, shares | 934,691 | |||||||||||||||||
| Purchases and retirement of capital stock, value | (99,458) | $ (14) | (99,444) | |||||||||||||||
| Purchases and retirement of capital stock, shares | (1,429,461) | |||||||||||||||||
| Net proceeds from issuance, shares | 9,800,000 | 41,400,000 | 9,775,000 | 41,400,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues | $ (98) | $ (414) | $ 950,886 | $ (950,788) | $ 2,980,586 | $ (2,980,172) | ||||||||||||
| Net proceeds from issuance of preferred stock | 950,886 | |||||||||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax | [1] | 36,329 | (43,864) | 82,043 | (1,850) | $ 38,179 | ||||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax | (45,714) | |||||||||||||||||
| Derivative instruments reclassified into results of operations, net of tax | 82,043 | |||||||||||||||||
| Preferred stock dividends | (11,363) | (11,363) | ||||||||||||||||
| Income (loss) from continuing operations | 93,901 | 90,111 | 3,790 | |||||||||||||||
| Balance, value at Dec. 31, 2013 | 6,941,175 | $ 98 | $ 3,341 | 9,482,769 | 58,261 | (81,873) | (2,535,879) | 14,458 | ||||||||||
| Balance, (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2013 | 334,070,016 | |||||||||||||||||
| Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||||||||||
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, shares outstanding | 9,775,000 | |||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax | (23,612) | |||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity, net of forfeitures, value | 51,497 | $ 1 | 51,496 | |||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity, net of forfeitures, shares | 79,490 | |||||||||||||||||
| Purchases and retirement of capital stock, value | (21,872) | $ (3) | (21,869) | |||||||||||||||
| Purchases and retirement of capital stock, shares | (292,874) | |||||||||||||||||
| Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock | 3,000,000 | |||||||||||||||||
| Net proceeds from issuance of preferred stock | 0 | |||||||||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax | [1] | 37,716 | (23,716) | 63,148 | 39,432 | |||||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax | (25,432) | (1,716) | [1] | |||||||||||||||
| Derivative instruments reclassified into results of operations, net of tax | 63,148 | |||||||||||||||||
| Common stock dividends/distributions | (626,074) | (626,074) | ||||||||||||||||
| Dividends, Preferred Stock | 43,988 | 43,988 | ||||||||||||||||
| Income (loss) from continuing operations | 398,774 | 390,513 | 8,261 | |||||||||||||||
| Balance, value at Dec. 31, 2014 | $ 6,737,228 | $ 98 | $ 3,339 | 9,512,396 | 34,545 | (18,725) | (2,815,428) | 21,003 | ||||||||||
| Balance, (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2014 | 333,856,632 | 333,856,632.000 | ||||||||||||||||
| Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||||||||||
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, shares outstanding | 9,775,000 | 9,775,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax | $ 15,820 | |||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity, net of forfeitures, value | 65,840 | $ 2 | 65,838 | |||||||||||||||
| Stock-based compensation related activity, net of forfeitures, shares | 251,554 | |||||||||||||||||
| Purchases and retirement of capital stock, value | (29,657) | $ (3) | (29,654) | |||||||||||||||
| Purchases and retirement of capital stock, shares | (336,526) | |||||||||||||||||
| Net proceeds from issuance of preferred stock | 0 | |||||||||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax | [1] | (21,090) | (38,943) | 18,725 | $ (20,218) | |||||||||||||
| Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax | (14,137) | (872) | [1] | |||||||||||||||
| Derivative instruments reclassified into results of operations, net of tax | 18,725 | |||||||||||||||||
| Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease) | $ (23,474) | |||||||||||||||||
| Common stock dividends/distributions | (1,119,973) | (1,119,973) | ||||||||||||||||
| Dividends, Preferred Stock | 43,988 | 43,988 | ||||||||||||||||
| Income (loss) from continuing operations | 1,524,335 | 1,520,992 | 3,343 | |||||||||||||||
| Balance, value at Dec. 31, 2015 | $ 7,089,221 | $ 98 | $ 3,338 | $ 9,548,580 | $ (4,398) | $ 0 | $ (2,458,397) | $ 0 | ||||||||||
| Balance, (in shares) at Dec. 31, 2015 | 333,771,660 | 333,771,660.00 | ||||||||||||||||
| Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] | ||||||||||||||||||
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, shares outstanding | 9,775,000 | 9,775,000 | ||||||||||||||||
| Accumulated other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax | $ (4,398) | |||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Accumulated change in equity from transactions and other events and circumstances from non-owner sources, net of tax effect, at period end. Excludes Net Income (Loss), and accumulated changes in equity from transactions resulting from investments by owners and distributions to owners. Includes foreign currency translation items, certain pension adjustments, unrealized gains and losses on certain investments in debt and equity securities, other than temporary impairment (OTTI) losses related to factors other than credit losses on available-for-sale and held-to-maturity debt securities that an entity does not intend to sell and it is not more likely than not that the entity will be required to sell before recovery of the amortized cost basis, as well as changes in the fair value of derivatives related to the effective portion of a designated cash flow hedge. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Number of shares of common stock outstanding. Common stock represent the ownership interest in a corporation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of paid and unpaid common stock dividends declared with the form of settlement in cash. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of paid and unpaid preferred stock dividends declared with the form of settlement in cash, stock and payment-in-kind (PIK). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of stockholders' equity (deficit), net of receivables from officers, directors, owners, and affiliates of the entity, attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests. Amount excludes temporary equity. Alternate caption for the concept is permanent equity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Basis of Presentation |
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| Basis of Presentation [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||
| Basis of Presentation |
The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Crown Castle International Corp. and its predecessor, as applicable (together, "CCIC"), and their subsidiaries, collectively referred to herein as the "Company." All significant intercompany balances and transactions have been eliminated in consolidation. As used herein, the term "including," and any variation thereof, means "including without limitation." The use of the word "or" herein is not exclusive. The Company owns, operates, and leases shared wireless infrastructure, including: (1) towers and other structures, such as rooftops (collectively, "towers"), and (2) small cell networks supported by fiber (collectively, "small cells" and, together with towers, "wireless infrastructure"). The Company conducts operations through subsidiaries of Crown Castle Operating Company ("CCOC"), including certain subsidiaries which operate wireless infrastructure portfolios in the United States, including Puerto Rico ("U.S."). See note 3 for a discussion of the May 2015 sale of the Company's formerly 77.6% owned subsidiary that operated towers in Australia (referred to as "CCAL"). The Company's core business is providing access, including space or capacity, to its shared wireless infrastructure via long-term contracts in various forms, including licenses, subleases and lease agreements (collectively, "leases"). The Company's wireless infrastructure is geographically dispersed throughout the U.S. Approximately 54% of the Company's towers are leased or subleased or operated and managed under master leases, subleases, or other agreements with AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile. The Company has the option to purchase these towers at the end of their respective lease terms. The Company has no obligation to exercise such purchase options. Additional information concerning these towers is as follows:
As part of the Company's effort to provide comprehensive wireless infrastructure solutions, it offers certain network services relating to its wireless infrastructure, consisting of (1) the following site development services relating to existing or new tenant equipment installations on its wireless infrastructure: site acquisition, architectural and engineering, or zoning and permitting (collectively, "site development services") and (2) tenant equipment installation or subsequent augmentations (collectively, "installation services"). Effective January 1, 2014, the Company commenced operating as a real estate investment trust ("REIT") for U.S. federal income tax purposes. In addition, the Company has certain taxable REIT subsidiaries ("TRSs"). See note 11. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities as of the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. |
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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies |
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| Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Summary of Significant Accounting Policies |
Restricted Cash Restricted cash represents (1) the cash held in reserve by the indenture trustees pursuant to the indenture governing certain of the Company's debt instruments, (2) cash securing performance obligations such as letters of credit, as well as (3) any other cash whose use is limited by contractual provisions. The restriction of rental cash receipts is a critical feature of certain of the Company's debt instruments, due to the applicable indenture trustee's ability to utilize the restricted cash for the payment of (1) debt service costs, (2) ground rents, (3) real estate or personal property taxes, (4) insurance premiums related to towers, (5) other assessments by governmental authorities and potential environmental remediation costs, or (6) a portion of advance rents from tenants. The restricted cash in excess of required reserve balances is subsequently released to the Company in accordance with the terms of the indentures. The Company has classified the increases and decreases in restricted cash as (1) cash provided by financing activities for cash held by indenture trustees based on consideration of the terms of the related indebtedness, although the cash flows have aspects of both financing activities and operating activities, (2) cash provided by investing activities for cash securing performance obligations and restricted cash that is acquired in acquisitions, or (3) cash provided by operating activities for the other remaining restricted cash. The following table is a summary of the impact of restricted cash on the statement of cash flows.
Receivables Allowance An allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded as an offset to accounts receivable. The Company uses judgment in estimating this allowance and considers historical collections, current credit status, or contractual provisions. Additions to the allowance for doubtful accounts are charged either to "site rental costs of operations" or to "network services and other costs of operations," as appropriate; and deductions from the allowance are recorded when specific accounts receivable are written off as uncollectible. Lease Accounting General. The Company classifies its leases at inception as either operating leases or capital leases. A lease is classified as a capital lease if at least one of the following criteria are met, subject to certain exceptions noted below: (1) the lease transfers ownership of the leased assets to the lessee, (2) there is a bargain purchase option, (3) the lease term is equal to 75% or more of the economic life of the leased assets, or (4) the present value of the minimum lease payments equals or exceeds 90% of the fair value of the leased assets. Lessee. Leases for land are evaluated for capital lease treatment if at least one of the first two criteria mentioned in the immediately preceding paragraph is present relating to the leased assets. When the Company, as lessee, classifies a lease as a capital lease, it records an asset in an amount equal to the present value of the minimum lease payments under the lease at the beginning of the lease term. Applicable operating leases are recognized on a straight-line basis as discussed under "costs of operations" below. Lessor. If the Company is the lessor of leased property that is part of a larger whole (including a portion of space on a tower) and for which fair value is not objectively determinable, then such a lease is accounted for as an operating lease. As applicable, operating leases are recognized on a straight-line basis as discussed under "Revenue Recognition." Property and Equipment Property and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Property and equipment includes land owned in fee and perpetual easements for land which have no definite life. When the Company purchases fee ownership or perpetual easements for the land previously subject to ground lease, the Company reduces the value recorded as land by the amount of any associated deferred ground lease payable or unamortized above-market leases. Depreciation is computed utilizing the straight-line method at rates based upon the estimated useful lives of the various classes of assets. Depreciation of wireless infrastructure is computed with a useful life equal to the shorter of 20 years or the term of the underlying ground lease (including optional renewal periods). Additions, renewals, and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed. Labor and interest costs incurred directly related to the construction of certain property and equipment are capitalized during the construction phase of projects. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, the Company had $36.7 million, $24.2 million and $17.6 million in capitalized labor costs, respectively. The carrying value of property and equipment is reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Abandonments and write-offs of property and equipment are recorded to "asset write-downs charges" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) and were $27.0 million, $9.3 million, and $8.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. Asset Retirement Obligations Pursuant to its ground lease and easement agreements, the Company records obligations to perform asset retirement activities, including requirements to remove wireless infrastructure or remediate the land upon which the Company's wireless infrastructure resides. Asset retirement obligations are included in "other long-term liabilities" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. The liability accretes as a result of the passage of time and the related accretion expense is included in "depreciation, amortization, and accretion" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The associated asset retirement costs are capitalized as an additional carrying amount of the related long-lived asset and depreciated over the useful life of such asset. Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price for an acquired business over the allocated value of the related net assets. The Company tests goodwill for impairment on an annual basis, regardless of whether adverse events or changes in circumstances have occurred. The annual test begins with goodwill and all intangible assets being allocated to applicable reporting units. The Company then performs a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is "more likely than not" that the fair value of the reporting units is less than its carrying amount. If it is concluded that it is "more likely than not" that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. The two-step goodwill impairment test begins with a comparison of the estimated fair value of the reporting unit and the carrying value of the reporting unit. The first step, commonly referred to as a "step-one impairment test," is a screen for potential impairment while the second step measures the amount of impairment if there is an indication from the first step that one exists. The Company's measurement of the fair value for goodwill is based on an estimate of discounted expected future cash flows of the reporting unit. The Company performed its most recent annual goodwill impairment test as of October 1, 2015, which resulted in no impairments. Intangible Assets Intangible assets are included in "site rental contracts and customer relationships, net" and "other intangible assets, net" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet and predominately consist of the estimated fair value of the following items recorded in conjunction with acquisitions: (1) site rental contracts and customer relationships, (2) below-market leases for land interest under the acquired wireless infrastructure, or (3) other contractual rights such as trademarks. The site rental contracts and customer relationships intangible assets are comprised of (1) the current term of the existing leases, (2) the expected exercise of the renewal provisions contained within the existing leases, which automatically occur under contractual provisions, or (3) any associated relationships that are expected to generate value following the expiration of all renewal periods under existing leases. The useful lives of intangible assets are estimated based on the period over which the intangible asset is expected to benefit the Company and gives consideration to the expected useful life of other assets to which the useful life may relate. Amortization expense for intangible assets is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of each of the intangible assets. The useful life of the site rental contracts and customer relationships intangible asset is limited by the maximum depreciable life of the wireless infrastructure (20 years), as a result of the interdependency of the wireless infrastructure and site rental leases. In contrast, the site rental contracts and customer relationships are estimated to provide economic benefits for several decades because of the low rate of tenant cancellations and high rate of renewals experienced to date. Thus, while site rental contracts and customer relationships are valued based upon the fair value, which includes assumptions regarding both (1) tenants' exercise of optional renewals contained in the acquired leases and (2) renewals of the acquired leases past the contractual term including exercisable options, the site rental contracts and customer relationships are amortized over a period not to exceed 20 years as a result of the useful life being limited by the depreciable life of the wireless infrastructure. The carrying value of other intangible assets with finite useful lives will be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. The Company has a dual grouping policy for purposes of determining the unit of account for testing impairment of the site rental contracts and customer relationships intangible assets. First, the Company pools the site rental contracts and customer relationships with the related wireless infrastructure assets into portfolio groups for purposes of determining the unit of account for impairment testing. Second and separately, the Company evaluates the site rental contracts and customer relationships by significant tenant or by tenant grouping for individually insignificant tenants, as appropriate. If the sum of the estimated future cash flows (undiscounted) expected to result from the use or eventual disposition of an asset is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized. Measurement of an impairment loss is based on the fair value of the asset. Deferred Credits Deferred credits are included in “deferred revenues” and “other long-term liabilities” on the Company's consolidated balance sheet and consist of the estimated fair value of the following items recorded in conjunction with acquisitions: (1) below-market tenant leases for contractual interests with tenants on acquired wireless infrastructure, which are amortized to site rental revenues and (2) above-market leases for land interests under the Company's wireless infrastructure, which are amortized to site rental cost of operations. Fair value for these deferred credits represents the difference between (1) the stated contractual payments to be made pursuant to the in-place lease and (2) management's estimate of fair market lease rates for each corresponding lease. Deferred credits are measured over a period equal to the estimated remaining economic lease term considering renewal provisions or economics associated with those renewal provisions, to the extent applicable. Deferred credits are amortized over their respected estimated lease terms at the time of acquisition. Deferred Financing Costs Third-party costs incurred to obtain financing are deferred and are included in "long-term prepaid rent, deferred financing costs, and other assets, net" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. Revenue Recognition Site rental revenues are recognized on a monthly basis over the fixed, non-cancelable term of the relevant lease (generally ranging from five to 15 years), regardless of whether the payments from the tenant are received in equal monthly amounts. The Company's leases contain fixed escalation clauses (such as fixed dollar or fixed percentage increases) or inflation-based escalation clauses (such as those tied to the consumer price index ("CPI")). If the payment terms call for fixed escalations, upfront payments, or rent free periods, the revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the fixed, non-cancelable term of the agreement. When calculating straight-line rental revenues, the Company considers all fixed elements of tenant contractual escalation provisions, even if such escalation provisions contain a variable element in addition to a minimum. The Company's assets related to straight-line site rental revenues are included in "other current assets" and "deferred site rental receivables." Amounts billed or received prior to being earned are deferred and reflected in "deferred revenues" and "other long-term liabilities." Network services revenues are recognized after completion of the applicable service. Nearly all of the installation services are billed on a cost-plus profit basis and site development services are billed on a fixed fee basis. Sales taxes or value-added taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are presented on a net basis. Costs of Operations In excess of two-thirds of the Company's site rental costs of operations expenses consist of ground lease expenses, and the remainder includes property taxes, repairs and maintenance expenses, employee compensation or related benefit costs, or utilities. Generally, the ground leases for land are specific to each site and are for an initial term of five years and are renewable for pre-determined periods. The Company also enters into term easements and ground leases in which it prepays the entire term in advance. Ground lease expense is recognized on a monthly basis, regardless of whether the lease agreement payment terms require the Company to make payments annually, quarterly, monthly, or for the entire term in advance. The Company's ground leases contain fixed escalation clauses (such as fixed dollar or fixed percentage increases) or inflation-based escalation clauses (such as those tied to the CPI). If the payment terms include fixed escalation provisions, the effect of such increases is recognized on a straight-line basis. The Company calculates the straight-line ground lease expense using a time period that equals or exceeds the remaining depreciable life of the wireless infrastructure asset. Further, when a tenant has exercisable renewal options that would compel the Company to exercise existing ground lease renewal options, the Company has straight-lined the ground lease expense over a sufficient portion of such ground lease renewals to coincide with the final termination of the tenant's renewal options. The Company's non-current liability related to straight-line ground lease expense is included in "other long-term liabilities" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. The Company's assets related to prepaid ground leases is included in "prepaid expenses" and "long-term prepaid rent, deferred financing costs and other assets, net" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. Network services and other costs of operations predominately consist of third party service providers such as contractors and professional service firms and, to a lesser extent, internal labor costs. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company had $55.3 million and $60.7 million, respectively, of work in process. Acquisition and Integration Costs All direct or incremental costs related to a business combination are expensed as incurred. Costs include severance, retention bonuses payable to employees of an acquired enterprise, temporary employees to assist with the integration of the acquired operations, or fees paid for services such as consulting, accounting, legal, or engineering reviews. These business combination costs are included in "acquisition and integration costs" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss). See note 4 for a discussion of our acquisitions during 2013, 2014, and 2015. In addition, during 2012, the Company acquired (1) rights to approximately 7,100 towers through the T-Mobile Acquisition and (2) NextG Networks, Inc., the then largest U.S operator of outdoor distributed antenna systems ("DAS"), a type of small cells. Stock-Based Compensation Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units. The Company records stock-based compensation expense only for those unvested restricted stock awards ("RSAs") and unvested restricted stock units ("RSUs") for which the requisite service is expected to be rendered. The cumulative effect of a change in the estimated number of RSAs and RSUs for which the requisite service is expected to be or has been rendered is recognized in the period of the change in the estimate. To the extent that the requisite service is rendered, compensation cost for accounting purposes is not reversed; rather, it is recognized regardless of whether or not the awards vest. A discussion of the Company's valuation techniques and related assumptions and estimates used to measure the Company's stock-based compensation is as follows: Valuation. The fair value of RSAs and RSUs without market conditions is determined based on the number of shares relating to such RSAs and RSUs and the quoted price of the Company's common stock at the date of grant. The Company estimates the fair value of RSAs and RSUs with market conditions granted using a Monte Carlo simulation. The Company's determination of the fair value of RSAs and RSUs with market conditions on the date of grant is affected by its common stock price as well as assumptions regarding a number of highly complex or subjective variables. The determination of fair value using a Monte Carlo simulation requires the input of subjective assumptions, and other reasonable assumptions could provide differing results. Amortization Method. The Company amortizes the fair value of all RSAs and RSUs on a straight-line basis for each separately vesting tranche of the award (graded vesting schedule) over the requisite service periods. Expected Volatility. The Company estimates the volatility of its common stock at the date of grant based on the historical volatility of its common stock. Expected Dividend Rate. The expected dividend rate at the date of grant is based on the then-current dividend yield. Risk-Free Rate. The Company bases the risk-free rate on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury issues with an equivalent remaining term equal to the expected life of the award. Forfeitures. The Company uses historical data and management's judgment about the future employee turnover rates to estimate the number of shares for which the requisite service period will not be rendered. Interest Expense and Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs The components of interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs are as follows:
The Company amortizes deferred financing costs, discounts, premiums, and purchase price adjustments on long-term debt over the estimated term of the related borrowing using the effective interest yield method. Discounts or purchase price adjustments are presented as a reduction to the related debt obligation on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. Income Taxes Effective January 1, 2014, the Company commenced operating as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a REIT, the Company is generally entitled to a deduction for dividends that it pays and therefore is not subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax on its taxable income that is currently distributed to its stockholders. The Company also may be subject to certain federal, state, local, and foreign taxes on its income and assets, including (1) alternative minimum taxes, (2) taxes on any undistributed income, (3) taxes related to the TRSs, (4) certain state, local, or foreign income taxes, (5) franchise taxes, (6) property taxes, and (7) transfer taxes. In addition, the Company could in certain circumstances be required to pay an excise or penalty tax, which could be significant in amount, in order to utilize one or more relief provisions under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), to maintain qualification for taxation as a REIT. In August 2014, the Company received a favorable private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"), which provides that the real property portion of the Company's small cells and the related rents qualify as real property and rents from real property, respectively, under the rules governing REITs. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company completed the necessary steps to include small cells that were previously included in one or more wholly-owned TRSs in the REIT effective January 2016. As a result, during the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company de-recognized the related net deferred tax liabilities. See note 11. Additionally, the Company has included in TRSs certain other assets and operations. Those TRS assets and operations will continue to be subject, as applicable, to federal and state corporate income taxes or to foreign taxes in the jurisdictions in which such assets and operations are located. The Company's foreign assets and operations (including its tower operations in Puerto Rico) most likely will be subject to foreign income taxes in the jurisdictions in which such assets and operations are located, regardless of whether they are included in a TRS or not. The Company will be subject to a federal corporate level tax rate (currently 35%) on the gain recognized from the sale of assets occurring within a specified period (generally 10 years) after the REIT conversion up to the amount of the built in gain that existed on January 1, 2014, which is based upon the fair market value of those assets in excess of the Company's tax basis on January 1, 2014. This gain can be offset by any remaining federal net operating loss carryforwards ("NOLs"). For the Company's TRSs, the Company accounts for income taxes using an asset and liability approach, which requires the recognition of deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company's financial statements or tax returns. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance is provided on deferred tax assets if it is determined that it is "more likely than not" that the asset will not be realized. The Company records a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets when it is "more likely than not" that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. The Company reviews the recoverability of deferred tax assets each quarter and based upon projections of future taxable income, reversing deferred tax liabilities or other known events that are expected to affect future taxable income, records a valuation allowance for assets that do not meet the "more likely than not" realization threshold. Valuation allowances may be reversed if related deferred tax assets are deemed realizable based upon changes in facts and circumstances that impact the recoverability of the asset. The Company recognizes a tax position if it is "more likely than not" that it will be sustained upon examination. The tax position is measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The Company reports penalties and tax-related interest expense as a component of the benefit (provision) for income taxes. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company has not recorded any penalties related to its income tax positions. Per Share Information Basic net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus any potential dilutive common share equivalents, including shares issuable (1) upon the vesting of RSAs and RSUs as determined under the treasury stock method and (2) upon conversion of the Company's Convertible Preferred Stock (as defined in note 12), as determined under the if-converted method. A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations is as follows:
For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, 11.4 million and 12.5 million common share equivalents related to the Convertible Preferred Stock, respectively, were excluded from the dilutive common shares because the impact of such conversion would be anti-dilutive, based on the Company's common stock price as of the end of each such year. See notes 12 and 13. Fair Values The Company's assets and liabilities recorded at fair value are categorized based upon a fair value hierarchy that ranks the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair value. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are (1) Level 1 — quoted prices (unadjusted) in active and accessible markets, (2) Level 2 — observable prices that are based on inputs not quoted in active markets but corroborated by market data, and (3) Level 3 — unobservable inputs and are not corroborated by market data. The Company evaluates fair value hierarchy level classifications quarterly, and transfers between levels are effective at the end of the quarterly period. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash approximate the carrying value. The Company determines the fair value of its debt securities based on indicative quotes (that is non-binding quotes) from brokers that require judgment to interpret market information including implied credit spreads for similar borrowings on recent trades or bid/ask prices or quotes from active markets if applicable. Foreign currency swaps are valued at settlement amounts using observable exchange rates and, if material, reflect an adjustment for the Company's and contract counterparty's credit risk. There were no changes since December 31, 2014 in the Company's valuation techniques used to measure fair values. See note 10 for a further discussion of fair values. Swaps Interest Rate Swaps. The Company had previously entered into interest rate swaps to manage or reduce its interest rate risk. Derivative financial instruments were entered into for periods that matched the related underlying exposures. The Company can designate derivative financial instruments as hedges. The Company can also enter into derivative financial instruments that are not designated as accounting hedges. Derivatives were recognized on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value. If the derivative was designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative was recorded as a separate component of stockholders' equity, captioned "accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet, and recognized as increases or decreases to "interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) when the hedged item affects earnings. If a hedge ceased to qualify for hedge accounting, any change in the fair value of the derivative since the date it ceased to qualify was recorded to "net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps." However, any amounts previously recorded to "accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" would remain there until the original forecasted transaction affected earnings. In situations where it becomes probable that the hedged forecasted transaction will not occur, any gains or losses that have been recorded to "accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" are immediately reclassified to earnings. See note 9. Foreign Currency Swaps. During 2015, the Company entered into foreign currency swaps to manage and reduce its foreign currency risk related to its sale of CCAL (see note 3). The derivatives were recognized on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value as of December 31, 2015. These swaps are not designated as accounting hedges and as such, the corresponding gain (loss) on the fair value adjustment is included as a component of "other income (expense)" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss). See note 9. In January 2016, the previously outstanding swap related to the installment payment received from the Buyer (as defined in note 3) was cash settled. Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued new guidance on the implementation and presentation of discontinued operations titled ASU 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity ("ASU 2014-08"). The guidance requires that only disposals that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on the entity's results and operations qualify as discontinued operations. In addition, the new guidance expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of discontinued operations. The new guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2015, and the Company has applied the new guidance to the sale of CCAL. See note 3. In November 2015, the FASB issued new guidance on the presentation of deferred tax assets and liabilities. The guidance requires deferred tax assets and liabilities to be presented as non-current on the balance sheet. The guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2017 and early adoption is permitted. The Company adopted this guidance on December 31, 2015 on a prospective basis. As such, the prior periods presented within the Company's consolidated financial statements were not retrospectively adjusted. See note 11. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted In April 2015, the FASB issued new guidance on the presentation of debt issuance costs. The guidance requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the related debt liability, consistent with debt discounts and premiums. The update requires retrospective application and the guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The Company will adopt the guidance on January 1, 2016. As of December 31, 2015, net deferred financing costs were $107.7 million and were recorded as a component of "long-term prepaid rent, deferred financing costs and other assets, net" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. In May 2014, the FASB released updated guidance regarding the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers, exclusive of those contracts within lease accounting. The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. To achieve that core principle, an entity should apply the following steps: (1) identify the contracts with the customer; (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (3) determine the contract price; (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. This guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018, following the FASB's July 2015 decision to defer the effective date of the standard by one year. This guidance is required to be applied, at the Company's election, either (1) retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented, or (2) with the cumulative effect being recognized at the date of initial application. The Company is evaluating the guidance, including the impact on its consolidated financial statements. In September 2015, the FASB issued new guidance which requires an acquirer to recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. The update requires prospective application and the guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect the standard to have a material impact to its consolidated financial statements upon initial adoption. |
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- Definition Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for all significant accounting policies of the reporting entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Discontinued Operations (Notes) |
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| Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] | Discontinued Operations On May 14, 2015, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to sell CCAL to a consortium of investors led by Macquarie Infrastructure and Real Assets (collectively, "Buyer"). On May 28, 2015, the Company completed the sale. At closing, the Company received net proceeds of approximately $1.1 billion after accounting for the Company's 77.6% ownership interest, repayment of intercompany debt owed to the Company by CCAL and estimated transaction fees and expenses, exclusive of the impact of foreign currency swaps related to the CCAL sale (see note 9). As part of the sale of CCAL, in January 2016, the Company received an installment payment from the Buyer totaling approximately $124 million, inclusive of the impact of the related foreign currency swap (see note 9). The installment payment is included within "other current assets" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. During the second quarter 2015, the Company used net proceeds from the sale of CCAL to repay portions of outstanding borrowings under its previously outstanding 2012 Credit Facility. See note 8. The Company entered into foreign currency swaps to manage and reduce its foreign currency risk associated with the sale of CCAL. These swaps are not included in discontinued operations. See note 9. CCAL has historically been a separate operating segment of the Company (see note 16). The sale of the Company's CCAL operating segment is treated as discontinued operations for all periods presented pursuant to ASU 2014-08, which the Company adopted on January 1, 2015 (see note 2). The sale of CCAL represents a strategic shift of the Company to focus on U.S. operations. The gain from disposal of CCAL is included in discontinued operations on the consolidated statement of operations. The tables below set forth the assets and liabilities related to discontinued operations at December 31, 2014, and their results of operations for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.
The Company recorded a gain on the sale of CCAL, which was comprised of the following items:
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- Definition Discontinued Operations [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure related to a disposal group. Includes, but is not limited to, a discontinued operation, disposal classified as held-for-sale or disposed of by means other than sale or disposal of an individually significant component. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Acquisitions |
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| Acquisitions | Acquisitions 2013 AT&T Acquisition During October 2013, the Company entered into a definitive agreement with AT&T, to acquire rights to towers which, as of December 31, 2015, comprised approximately 23% of the Company's towers for $4.827 billion in cash at closing ("AT&T Acquisition"). On December 16, 2013, the Company closed on the acquisition. See note 1 for further discussion of the terms of the AT&T master prepaid lease, including the related purchase option. The Company utilized net proceeds from the October 2013 Equity Financings (as defined in note 12), and additional borrowings under the 2012 Revolver (as defined in note 8) and term loans to fund the AT&T Acquisition, as well as cash on hand. The final purchase price allocation for the AT&T Acquisition is shown below.
(a)Inclusive of above-market leases for land interests under the Company's towers. (b)No deferred taxes were recorded as a result of the Company's REIT election. See note 11. The unaudited pro forma financial results for the year ended December 31, 2013 combine the historical results of the Company, along with the pro forma impact from the AT&T Acquisition. The following table presents the unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations of the Company as if the AT&T Acquisition was completed as of January 1, 2013. The unaudited pro forma amounts are presented for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of future consolidated results of operations.
For additional discussion of the AT&T Acquisition see notes 6, 8, and 12. 2014 Land Acquisitions During 2014, the Company completed several acquisitions of portfolios of land interests under towers ("2014 Land Acquisitions"). These acquisitions were predominately comprised of an aggregate of 1,200 land interests for an aggregate purchase price of approximately $354 million, net of cash acquired. 2015 Sunesys Acquisition During April 2015, the Company entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Quanta Fiber Networks, Inc. ("Sunesys") for approximately $1.0 billion in cash, subject to certain limited adjustments ("Sunesys Acquisition"). On August 4, 2015, the Company closed the Sunesys Acquisition. The results of operations from Sunesys have been included in the Company's consolidated statement of operations since the date of acquisition. Prior to the closing, Sunesys was a wholly owned subsidiary of Quanta Services, Inc. and a fiber services provider that owned or had rights to nearly 10,000 miles of fiber in major metropolitan markets across the U.S., including Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Chicago, Atlanta, Silicon Valley, and northern New Jersey. Approximately 60% of Sunesys' fiber miles were located in the top 10 basic trading areas. The Company utilized borrowings under the 2012 Revolver and cash on hand to fund the cash consideration of approximately $1.0 billion. See note 8. The preliminary purchase price allocation for the Sunesys Acquisition is shown below. The preliminary purchase price allocation is based upon a preliminary valuation which is subject to change as the Company obtains additional information, with respect to fixed assets, intangible assets and certain liabilities.
Net revenues and net income (loss) attributable to the Sunesys Acquisition are included in the Company's consolidated statements of operations and comprehensive income (loss), since the date the acquisition was completed. For the year ended December 31, 2015, the Sunesys Acquisition resulted in an increase to consolidated net revenues of $41.4 million. |
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- Definition Acquisitions No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. The disclosure may include leverage buyout transactions (as applicable). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Property and Equipment |
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| Property and Equipment | The major classes of property and equipment are as follows:
Depreciation expense for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013 was $774.9 million, $733.6 million and $536.2 million, respectively. Capital leases and associated leasehold improvements related to gross property and equipment, and accumulated depreciation was $4.4 billion and $1.2 billion, respectively, as of December 31, 2015. See notes 1 and 2, including discussion of the Company's prepaid master lease agreements. |
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for long-lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Includes, but is not limited to, accounting policies and methodology, roll forwards, depreciation, depletion and amortization expense, including composite depreciation, accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization expense, useful lives and method used, income statement disclosures, assets held for sale and public utility disclosures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Goodwill and Intangible Assets |
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| Goodwill and Intangible Assets | nges in the carrying value of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 were as follows:
Intangibles The following is a summary of the Company's intangible assets. See note 4 for further discussion of the Company's acquisitions.
Amortization expense related to intangible assets is classified as follows on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss):
The estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets (inclusive of those recorded as an increase to "site rental costs of operations") for the years ended December 31, 2016 to 2020 is as follows:
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- Definition Goodwill and Intangible Assets No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for the aggregate amount of goodwill and a description of intangible assets, which may include (a) for amortizable intangible assets (also referred to as finite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, the amount of any significant residual value, and the weighted-average amortization period, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization (also referred to as indefinite-lived intangible assets), the carrying amount, and (c) the amount of research and development assets acquired and written off in the period, including the line item in the income statement in which the amounts written off are aggregated, if not readily apparent from the income statement. Also discloses (a) for amortizable intangibles assets in total and by major class, the gross carrying amount and accumulated amortization, the total amortization expense for the period, and the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years, (b) for intangible assets not subject to amortization the carrying amount in total and by major class, and (c) for goodwill, in total and for each reportable segment, the changes in the carrying amount of goodwill during the period (including the aggregate amount of goodwill acquired, the aggregate amount of impairment losses recognized, and the amount of goodwill included in the gain (loss) on disposal of a reporting unit). If any part of goodwill has not been allocated to a reportable segment, discloses the unallocated amount and the reasons for not allocating. For each impairment loss recognized related to an intangible asset (excluding goodwill), discloses: (a) a description of the impaired intangible asset and the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method for determining fair value, (c) the caption in the income statement or the statement of activities in which the impairment loss is aggregated, and (d) the segment in which the impaired intangible asset is reported. For each goodwill impairment loss recognized, discloses: (a) a description of the facts and circumstances leading to the impairment, (b) the amount of the impairment loss and the method of determining the fair value of the associated reporting unit, and (c) if a recognized impairment loss is an estimate not finalized and the reasons why the estimate is not final. May also disclose the nature and amount of any significant adjustments made to a previous estimate of an impairment loss. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Other Liabilities (Notes) |
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| Other Liabilities | Other Liabilities Other long-term liabilities The following is a summary of the components of "other long-term liabilities" as presented on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. See also note 2.
For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, the Company recorded $22.5 million, $24.2 million, and $7.2 million, respectively, as a decrease to "site rental costs of operations" for the amortization of above-market leases for land interests under the Company's towers. The estimated amortization expense related to above-market leases for land interests under the Company's towers recorded to site rental costs of operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 to 2020 is as follows:
For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 the Company recognized $32.8 million, $29.5 million, and $29.6 million, respectively, in "site rental revenues" related to the amortization of below market tenant leases. The following table summarizes the estimated annual amounts related to below-market tenant leases expected to be amortized into site rental revenues for the years ended December 31, 2016 to 2020 are as follows:
Other accrued liabilities Other accrued liabilities included accrued payroll and other accrued compensation of $78.7 million and $61.9 million, respectively, as of December 31, 2015 and 2014. |
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for other liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Debt and Other Obligations |
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| Debt and Other Obligations [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt and Other Obligations | Debt and Other Obligations See note 19 for a discussion of the Company's 2016 financing activities, including: (1) the completion of the 2016 Credit Facility, (2) the repayment of the 2012 Credit Facility, and (3) the issuance of the 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes and the utilization of such proceeds. The table below sets forth the Company's debt and other obligations as of December 31, 2015.
The credit agreement governing the Company's senior credit facility ("2012 Credit Facility") contains financial maintenance covenants. The Company is currently in compliance with these financial maintenance covenants, and based upon current expectations, the Company believes it will continue to comply with its financial maintenance covenants. In addition, certain of the Company's debt agreements also contain restrictive covenants that place restrictions on CCIC or its subsidiaries and may limit the Company's ability to, among other things, incur additional debt and liens, purchase the Company's securities, make capital expenditures, dispose of assets, undertake transactions with affiliates, make other investments, pay dividends or distribute excess cash flow. Bank Debt In January 2012, CCOC entered into the 2012 Credit Facility. The 2012 Credit Facility is secured by a pledge of certain equity interests of certain subsidiaries of CCIC, as well as a security interest in CCOC's and certain of its subsidiaries' deposit accounts ($80.0 million as of December 31, 2015) and securities accounts. The 2012 Credit Facility is guaranteed by CCIC and certain of its subsidiaries. The following are highlights of the Company's issuances, refinancings, and other activities related to the 2012 Credit Facility since the beginning of 2013: •In 2013, the Company:
◦extended the maturity of both the Tranche A Term Loans and the 2012 Revolver,
Securitized Debt The Tower Revenue Notes and the 2009 Securitized Notes (collectively, "Securitized Debt") are obligations of special purpose entities and their direct and indirect subsidiaries (each an "issuer"), all of which are wholly-owned, indirect subsidiaries of CCIC. The Tower Revenue Notes and 2009 Securitized Notes are governed by separate indentures. The January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes, August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes, and May 2015 Tower Revenue Notes are governed by one indenture and consist of multiple series of notes, each with its own anticipated repayment date. The net proceeds of the January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes and August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes were primarily used to repay the portion of the 2005 Tower Revenue Notes not previously purchased and 2006 Tower Revenue Notes not previously purchased, respectively. In April 2014, the Company utilized a portion of the net proceeds from the 4.875% Senior Notes (as defined below) offering to repay $300.0 million of the January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes with an anticipated repayment date of January 2015. The net proceeds of the May 2015 Tower Revenue Notes, together with proceeds received from our sale of CCAL, were primarily used to (1) to repay $250.0 million aggregate principal amount of August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes with an anticipated repayment date of August 2015, (2) to repay all of the previously outstanding WCP Securitized Notes, (3) to repay portions of outstanding borrowings under its 2012 Credit Facility, and (4) to pay related fees and expenses. The Securitized Debt is paid solely from the cash flows generated by the operation of the towers held directly and indirectly by the issuers of the respective Securitized Debt. The Securitized Debt is secured by, among other things, (1) a security interest in substantially all of the applicable issuers' assignable personal property, (2) a pledge of the equity interests in each applicable issuer, and (3) a security interest in the applicable issuers' leases with tenants to lease tower space (space licenses) . The governing instruments of two indirect subsidiaries ("Crown Atlantic" and "Crown GT") of the issuers of the Tower Revenue Notes generally prevent them from issuing debt and granting liens on their assets without the approval of a subsidiary of Verizon Communications. Consequently, while distributions paid by Crown Atlantic and Crown GT will service the Tower Revenue Notes, the Tower Revenue Notes are not obligations of, nor are the Tower Revenue Notes secured by the cash flows or any other assets of, Crown Atlantic and Crown GT. As of December 31, 2015, the Securitized Debt was collateralized with personal property and equipment with an aggregate net book value of approximately $1.3 billion, exclusive of Crown Atlantic and Crown GT personal property and equipment. The excess cash flows from the issuers of the Securitized Debt, after the payment of principal, interest, reserves, expenses, and management fees are distributed to the Company in accordance with the terms of the indentures. If the Debt Service Coverage Ratio ("DSCR") (as defined in the applicable governing loan agreement) as of the end of any calendar quarter falls to a certain level, then all excess cash flow of the issuers of the applicable debt instrument will be deposited into a reserve account instead of being released to the Company. The funds in the reserve account will not be released to the Company until the DSCR exceeds a certain level for two consecutive calendar quarters. If the DSCR falls below a certain level as of the end of any calendar quarter, then all cash on deposit in the reserve account along with future excess cash flows of the issuers will be applied to prepay the debt with applicable prepayment consideration. The Company may repay the Tower Revenue Notes or the 2009 Securitized Notes in whole or in part at any time after the second anniversary of the applicable issuance date, provided such prepayment is accompanied by any applicable prepayment consideration. The Securitized Debt has covenants and restrictions customary for rated securitizations, including provisions prohibiting the issuers from incurring additional indebtedness or further encumbering their assets. Bonds—Senior Notes. In April 2014, CCIC issued $850.0 million of senior notes due in April 2022 ("4.875% Senior Notes"). The net proceeds from the offering were approximately $839 million, after the deduction of associated fees. The Company utilized the net proceeds from the 4.875% Senior Notes offering (1) to repay $300.0 million of the January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes with an anticipated repayment date of January 2015 and (2) to redeem all of the previously outstanding 7.125% Senior Notes. The 5.25% senior notes due 2023 ("5.25% Senior Notes" and, with the 4.875% Senior Notes, "Senior Notes") are general obligations of CCIC, which rank equally with all existing and future senior debt of CCIC. The Senior Notes are effectively subordinated to all liabilities (including trade payables) of each subsidiary of CCIC and rank pari passu with the other respective high yield bonds of CCIC. The Company used the net proceeds from the 5.25% Senior Notes offering to partially fund the T-Mobile Acquisition. The Senior Notes contain restrictive covenants with which CCIC and its restricted subsidiaries must comply, subject to a number of exceptions or qualifications, including restrictions on its ability to incur incremental debt, issue preferred stock, guarantee debt, pay dividends, repurchase its capital stock, use assets as security in other transactions, sell assets or merge with or into other companies, or make certain investments. Certain of these restrictions are not applicable if there is no event of default and if the ratio of CCIC's Consolidated Indebtedness (as defined in the respective Senior Notes indenture) to its Adjusted Consolidated Cash Flows (as defined in the respective Senior Notes indenture) is less than or equal to 7.0 to 1.0. The Senior Notes do not contain any financial maintenance covenants. CCIC may redeem the 4.875% Senior Notes or the 5.25% Senior Notes in whole or in part at any time at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount to be redeemed, plus a make whole premium, and accrued and unpaid interest if any. Bonds—Secured Notes. The 2012 Secured Notes consist of $500 million aggregate principal amount of 2.381% secured notes due 2017 and $1.0 billion aggregate principal amount of 3.849% secured notes due 2023. The 2012 Secured Notes were issued and are guaranteed by the same subsidiaries of CCIC that had previously issued and guaranteed the 7.75% Secured Notes. The 2012 Secured Notes are secured by a pledge of the equity interests of such subsidiaries. The 2012 Secured Notes are not guaranteed by and are not obligations of CCIC or any of its subsidiaries other than the issuers and guarantors of the 2012 Secured Notes. The 2012 Secured Notes will be paid solely from the cash flows generated from operations of the towers held directly and indirectly by the issuers and the guarantors of such notes. The Company used the net proceeds from the issuance of the 2012 Secured Notes to repurchase and redeem the previously outstanding 7.75% Secured Notes and a portion of the previously outstanding 9% Senior Notes. The 2012 Secured Notes may be redeemed at any time at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount, plus a make whole premium, and accrued and unpaid interest, if any. Previously Outstanding Indebtedness Securitized Debt. See above for a discussion of (1) the April 2014 repayment of $300.0 million of the January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes with an anticipated repayment date of January 2015, and (2) the May 2015 repayment of $250.0 million of the August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes with an anticipated repayment date of August 2015 and (3) all of the previously outstanding WCP Securitized Notes. Bonds—Senior Notes. In May 2014, CCIC redeemed approximately $500.0 million aggregate principal amount of its 7.125% Senior Notes at a price equal to 100% of the principal amount of the 7.125% senior notes redeemed, plus a make-whole premium, and accrued and unpaid interest. The Company utilized a portion of the net proceeds from the 4.875% Senior Notes offering, together with cash on hand, to redeem such previously outstanding 7.125% Senior Notes. Bonds—Secured Notes. In December 2012, the Company purchased approximately $670.6 million aggregate principal amount of the 7.75% Secured Notes validly tendered on or prior to the expiration date. In January 2013, all of the remaining then outstanding 7.75% Secured Notes (approximately $294.4 million aggregate principal amount) were redeemed. The purchase and redemption of the 7.75% Secured Notes was funded by the issuance of the 2012 Secured Notes. Contractual Maturities The following are the scheduled contractual maturities of the total debt or other long-term obligations outstanding at December 31, 2015. These maturities reflect contractual maturity dates and do not consider the principal payments that will commence following the anticipated repayment dates on the Tower Revenue Notes. If the Tower Revenue Notes are not paid in full on or prior to their respective anticipated repayment dates, as applicable, then the Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the indenture) of the issuers of such notes will be used to repay principal of the applicable series and class of the Tower Revenue Notes, and additional interest (of an additional approximately 5% per annum) will accrue on the Tower Revenue Notes. See also note 19.
Debt Purchases and Redemptions The following is a summary of the purchases and redemptions of debt during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013.
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- Definition Debt and Other Obligations [Abstract} No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for debt and capital lease obligations can be reported. Information about short-term and long-term debt arrangements, which includes amounts of borrowings under each line of credit, note payable, commercial paper issue, bonds indenture, debenture issue, own-share lending arrangements and any other contractual agreement to repay funds, and about the underlying arrangements, rationale for a classification as long-term, including repayment terms, interest rates, collateral provided, restrictions on use of assets and activities, whether or not in compliance with debt covenants, and other matters important to users of the financial statements, such as the effects of refinancing and noncompliance with debt covenants. Also includes descriptions and amounts of capital leasing arrangements that consist of direct financing, sales type and leveraged leases. Disclosure may include the effect on the balance sheet and the income statement resulting from a change in lease classification for leases that at inception would have been classified differently had guidance been in effect at the inception of the original lease. No definition available.
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| Summary of Derivative Instruments [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] | Swaps Interest Rate Swaps The Company had previously entered into interest rate swaps to manage or reduce its interest rate risk, including the use of (1) forward-starting interest rate swaps to hedge its exposure to variability in future cash flows attributable to changes in LIBOR on anticipated financings, including refinancings and potential future borrowings or (2) interest rate swaps to hedge the interest rate variability on a portion of the Company's floating rate debt. The Company does not enter into interest rate swaps for speculative or trading purposes. As of December 31, 2015, the Company does not have any interest rate swaps outstanding. For the year ended December 31, 2013, the loss reclassified into earnings from accumulated comprehensive income (loss) was inclusive of $17.1 million of income tax provision. Foreign Currency Swaps During May 2015, the Company entered into two foreign currency swaps to manage and reduce its foreign currency risk related to its sale of CCAL (see note 3). The Company does not enter into foreign currency swaps for speculative or trading purposes. The foreign currency swaps were originally comprised of the following:
In total, the Company recorded a gain on foreign currency swaps of $65.2 million for the year ended December 31, 2015, respectively. This gain is included as a component of "other income (expense)" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations. |
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- Definition The entire disclosure for derivative instruments and hedging activities including, but not limited to, risk management strategies, non-hedging derivative instruments, assets, liabilities, revenue and expenses, and methodologies and assumptions used in determining the amounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
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Fair Value Disclosures |
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| Fair Value Disclosures | Fair Value Disclosures The following table shows the estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments, along with the carrying amounts of the related assets (liabilities). See also note 2.
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- Definition Fair Value Disclosures No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for the fair value of financial instruments (as defined), including financial assets and financial liabilities (collectively, as defined), and the measurements of those instruments as well as disclosures related to the fair value of non-financial assets and liabilities. Such disclosures about the financial instruments, assets, and liabilities would include: (1) the fair value of the required items together with their carrying amounts (as appropriate); (2) for items for which it is not practicable to estimate fair value, disclosure would include: (a) information pertinent to estimating fair value (including, carrying amount, effective interest rate, and maturity, and (b) the reasons why it is not practicable to estimate fair value; (3) significant concentrations of credit risk including: (a) information about the activity, region, or economic characteristics identifying a concentration, (b) the maximum amount of loss the entity is exposed to based on the gross fair value of the related item, (c) policy for requiring collateral or other security and information as to accessing such collateral or security, and (d) the nature and brief description of such collateral or security; (4) quantitative information about market risks and how such risks are managed; (5) for items measured on both a recurring and nonrecurring basis information regarding the inputs used to develop the fair value measurement; and (6) for items presented in the financial statement for which fair value measurement is elected: (a) information necessary to understand the reasons for the election, (b) discussion of the effect of fair value changes on earnings, (c) a description of [similar groups] items for which the election is made and the relation thereof to the balance sheet, the aggregate carrying value of items included in the balance sheet that are not eligible for the election; (7) all other required (as defined) and desired information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Income Taxes |
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| Income Taxes [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Taxes | Income Taxes Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes by geographic area is as follows:
The benefit (provision) for income taxes consists of the following:
A reconciliation between the benefit (provision) for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the federal statutory income tax rate to the income (loss) before income taxes is as follows:
The components of the net deferred income tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company completed the necessary steps to include its small cells that were previously included in one or more TRSs in the REIT effective January 2016. See note 19. As a result, during the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company de-recognized the net deferred tax liabilities in conjunction with the inclusion of small cells in the REIT in January 2016, which resulted in a net non-cash income tax benefit of $33.8 million. During the fourth quarter of 2013, the Company completed the steps necessary to qualify to operate as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes and received final approval from the Company's board of directors. As a result, the Company de-recognized the net deferred tax assets and liabilities related to the entities included in the REIT, which resulted in net non-cash income tax charge of $67.4 million in conjunction with the REIT conversion. Included in the REIT conversion charge of $67.4 million is a $39.8 million adjustment to reclassify a deferred tax charge from AOCI to the provision for income taxes. During 2013, in connection with completing the steps necessary to qualify to operate as a REIT, the Company reversed $29.4 million of valuation allowance associated with capital loss carryforwards as the Company generated sufficient capital gains in 2013 to fully realize these capital loss carryforwards. Also, during 2013, the Company recorded a valuation allowance of $12.0 million against federal NOLs of its TRSs as the Company determined that a portion of its TRSs federal NOLs more likely than not will not be realized. The components of the net deferred income tax assets (liabilities) are as follows:
At December 31, 2015, the Company had U.S. federal and state NOLs of approximately $1.3 billion and $0.6 billion, respectively, which are available to offset future taxable income. These amounts include $244.6 million of losses related to stock-based compensation. If not utilized, the Company's U.S. federal NOLs expire starting in 2024 and ending in 2032, and the state NOLs expire starting in 2016 and ending in 2035. The utilization of the NOLs is subject to certain limitations. The Company's U.S. federal and state income tax returns generally remain open to examination by taxing authorities until three years after the applicable NOLs have been used or expired. The remaining valuation allowance relates to certain foreign net deferred tax assets (primarily NOLs). As of December 31, 2015, the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that would impact the effective tax rate, if recognized, was $6.7 million. The aggregate changes in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits are as follows:
From time to time, the Company is subject to examinations by various tax authorities in jurisdictions in which the Company has business operations. At this time, the Company is not subject to an IRS examination. The Australian Taxation Office is conducting an audit of the tax consequences for Australian tax purposes of the Company’s sale of CCAL. The Company regularly assesses the likelihood of additional assessments in each of the tax jurisdictions. The Company believes it has adequately provided for uncertain tax positions and does not believe assessments, if any, arising from current or future examination or audits will have a material effect on the Company's financial statements. As of December 31, 2015, the Company's deferred tax assets are included in "long-term prepaid rent, deferred financing costs and other assets, net" and the Company's deferred tax liabilities are included in "other long-term liabilities" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. See note 2 for a discussion of recently adopted guidance on the presentation of deferred tax assets and deferred tax liabilities. |
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- Definition Income Taxes [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for income taxes. Disclosures may include net deferred tax liability or asset recognized in an enterprise's statement of financial position, net change during the year in the total valuation allowance, approximate tax effect of each type of temporary difference and carryforward that gives rise to a significant portion of deferred tax liabilities and deferred tax assets, utilization of a tax carryback, and tax uncertainties information. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Stockholders' Equity |
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| Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stockholders' Equity | Equity October 2013 Equity Financings On October 28, 2013, the Company completed an offering of 41.4 million shares of common stock, which generated net proceeds of approximately $3.0 billion. On October 28, 2013, the Company completed an offering of approximately 9.8 million shares of the Company's 4.50% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, Series A, par value $0.01 per share ("Convertible Preferred Stock"), which generated net proceeds of $950.9 million. The holders of the Convertible Preferred Stock are entitled to receive cumulative dividends, when and if declared by the Company's board of directors, at the rate of 4.50% per annum payable on February 1, May 1, August 1 and November 1 of each year, commencing in February 2014, and to, and including, November 1, 2016. The dividends may be paid in cash or, subject to certain limitations, shares of common stock or any combination of cash and shares of common stock. The terms of the Convertible Preferred Stock provide that, unless accumulated dividends have been paid or set aside for payment on all outstanding Convertible Preferred Stock for all past dividend periods, no dividends may be declared or paid on common stock. Unless converted earlier, each outstanding share of the Convertible Preferred Stock will automatically convert on November 1, 2016. Currently, each share of Convertible Preferred Stock will convert into between 1.1538 and 1.4421 shares of common stock, depending on the applicable market value of the common stock and subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments. At any time prior to November 1, 2016, holders of the Convertible Preferred Stock may elect to convert all or a portion of their shares into common stock at the minimum conversion rate of 1.1538, subject to certain anti-dilution adjustments. See note 2. The common stock and Convertible Preferred Stock offerings in October 2013 are collectively referred to herein as the "October 2013 Equity Financings." The Company used the proceeds from the October 2013 Equity Financings to partially fund the AT&T Acquisition. "At-The-Market" Stock Offering Program In August 2015, the Company established an "at-the-market" stock offering program ("ATM Program") through which it may, from time to time, issue and sell shares of its common stock having an aggregate gross sales price of up to $500.0 million to or through sales agents. Sales, if any, under the ATM Program may be made by means of ordinary brokers' transactions on the New York Stock Exchange or otherwise at market prices prevailing at the time of sale, at prices related to prevailing market prices or, subject to specific instructions of the Company, at negotiated prices. The Company intends to use the net proceeds from any sales under the ATM Program for general corporate purposes, which may include the funding of future acquisitions or investments and the repayment or repurchase of any outstanding indebtedness. As of December 31, 2015, no shares of common stock were sold under the ATM Program. Declaration and Payment of Dividends During the year ended December 31, 2015, the following dividends were declared or paid:
See note 19. Tax Treatment of Dividends The following table summarizes, for income tax purposes, the nature of dividends paid during 2015 on the Company's common stock and Convertible Preferred Stock.
Alternative minimum tax adjustments are to be apportioned between a REIT and its shareholders under Code Section 59(d). Although regulations have not yet been issued under that provision, based on regulations issued pursuant to a similar provision of prior law and the legislative history of the current provision, it appears that such alternative minimum tax adjustments are to be apportioned to a REIT's shareholders to the extent that the REIT distributes its regular taxable income. All of the Company's alternative minimum tax adjustments are being apportioned to the Company's shareholders. The Company has determined that 0.54% of each distribution to the Company's shareholders for the tax year ended December 31, 2015 consists of an alternative minimum tax adjustment. Purchases of the Company's Common Stock For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, the Company purchased 0.3 million, 0.3 million, and 1.4 million shares of common stock, respectively, utilizing $29.7 million, $21.8 million, and $99.5 million in cash, respectively. |
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- Definition The entire disclosure for shareholders' equity comprised of portions attributable to the parent entity and noncontrolling interest, including other comprehensive income. Includes, but is not limited to, balances of common stock, preferred stock, additional paid-in capital, other capital and retained earnings, accumulated balance for each classification of other comprehensive income and amount of comprehensive income. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Stock-based Compensation |
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| Share-based Compensation [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stock-based Compensation | Stock-based Compensation Stock Compensation Plans Pursuant to stockholder approved plans, the Company has and is permitted to grant stock-based awards to certain employees, consultants or non-employee directors of the Company and its subsidiaries or affiliates. As of December 31, 2015, the Company has 12.3 million shares available for future issuance pursuant to its 2013 Long-Term Incentive Plan ("LTI Plan"). Of these shares remaining available for future issuance, approximately 1.8 million may be issued pursuant to outstanding RSUs granted under the LTI Plan. Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units During the year ended December 31, 2013, the Company issued RSAs to certain executives and employees. During the year ended December 31, 2014, in conjunction with the adoption of the LTI Plan, the Company began issuing RSUs to certain executives and employees; each RSU represents a contingent right to receive one share of common stock subject to satisfaction of the applicable vesting terms. The RSAs and RSUs granted to certain executives and employees include (1) annual performance awards that often include provisions for forfeiture by the employee if certain market performance of the Company's common stock is not achieved, (2) new hire or promotional awards that generally contain only service conditions, or (3) other awards related to specific business initiatives or compensation objectives including retention and merger integration. Generally, such awards vest over periods of approximately three years. The following is a summary of the RSA and RSU activity during the year ended December 31, 2015.
The Company granted approximately 1.0 million RSUs to the Company's executives and certain other employees for each of the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014. The Company granted approximately 1.0 million shares of RSAs to the Company's executives and certain other employees for the year ended December 31, 2013. The weighted-average grant-date fair value per share of the grants for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013 was $69.96, $57.78, and $46.37 per share, respectively. The weighted-average requisite service period for the RSUs granted during 2015 was approximately 2.5 years. The approximately 1.0 million RSUs granted during the year ended December 31, 2015, were comprised of (1) approximately 0.5 million RSUs that time vest over a three-year period, and (2) approximately 0.5 million RSUs to the Company's executives and certain other employees which may vest on the third anniversary of the grant date based upon the Company's total shareholder returns (defined as share price appreciation plus the value of dividends paid during the performance period) compared to that of selected peer companies. Certain RSA and RSU agreements contain provisions that result in forfeiture by the employee of any unvested shares in the event that the Company's common stock does not achieve certain price targets. To the extent that the requisite service is rendered, compensation cost for accounting purposes is not reversed; rather, it is recognized regardless of whether or not the market performance target is achieved. The following table summarizes the assumptions used in the Monte Carlo simulation to determine the grant-date fair value for the awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively, with market conditions.
The Company recognized aggregate stock-based compensation expense related to RSAs and RSUs of $57.1 million, $45.8 million, and $37.8 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. The aggregate unrecognized compensation (net of estimated forfeitures) related to RSAs and RSUs at December 31, 2015 is $51.5 million and is estimated to be recognized over a weighted-average period of less than one year. The following table is a summary of the awards vested during the three years ended December 31, 2015.
Stock-based Compensation The following table discloses the components of stock-based compensation expense.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for compensation-related costs for equity-based compensation, which may include disclosure of policies, compensation plan details, allocation of equity compensation, incentive distributions, equity-based arrangements to obtain goods and services, deferred compensation arrangements, employee stock ownership plan details and employee stock purchase plan details. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
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Commitments and Contingencies |
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Dec. 31, 2015 | |
| Commitments and Contingencies [Abstract] | |
| Commitments and Contingencies | Commitments and Contingencies The Company is involved in various claims, lawsuits, or proceedings arising in the ordinary course of business. While there are uncertainties inherent in the ultimate outcome of such matters and it is impossible to presently determine the ultimate costs or losses that may be incurred, if any, management believes the resolution of such uncertainties and the incurrence of such costs should not have a material adverse effect on the Company's consolidated financial position or results of operations. Additionally, the Company and certain of its subsidiaries are contingently liable for commitments or performance guarantees arising in the ordinary course of business, including certain letters of credit or surety bonds. See note 15 for a discussion of the operating lease commitments. In addition, see note 1 for a discussion of the Company's option to purchase approximately 54% of its towers at the end of their respective lease terms. The Company has no obligation to exercise such purchase options. Asset Retirement Obligations Pursuant to its ground lease and easement agreements, the Company has the obligation to perform certain asset retirement activities, including requirements upon lease or easement termination to remove wireless infrastructure or remediate the land upon which its wireless infrastructure resides. Accretion expense related to liabilities for retirement obligations amounted to $9.9 million, $9.2 million, and $7.1 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, liabilities for retirement obligations were $132.1 million and $119.5 million, respectively, representing the net present value of the estimated expected future cash outlay. As of December 31, 2015, the estimated undiscounted future cash outlay for asset retirement obligations was approximately $1.1 billion. See note 2. |
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- Definition Commitments and Contingencies No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for commitments and contingencies. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Leases |
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| Leases [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Leases | Operating Leases Tenant Leases The following table is a summary of the rental cash payments owed to the Company, as a lessor, by tenants pursuant to contractual agreements in effect as of December 31, 2015. Generally, the Company's leases with its tenants provide for (1) annual escalations, (2) multiple renewal periods at the tenant's option, and (3) only limited termination rights at the applicable tenant's option through the current term. As of December 31, 2015, the weighted-average remaining term of tenant leases is approximately six years, exclusive of renewals at the tenant's option. The tenants' rental payments included in the table below are through the current terms with a maximum current term of 20 years and do not assume exercise of tenant renewal options.
Operating Leases The following table is a summary of rental cash payments owed by the Company, as lessee, to landlords pursuant to contractual agreements in effect as of December 31, 2015. The Company is obligated under non-cancelable operating leases for land interests under 78% of its towers. The majority of these lease agreements have (1) certain termination rights that provide for cancellation after a notice period, (2) multiple renewal options at the Company's option, and (3) annual escalations. Lease agreements may also contain provisions for a contingent payment based on revenues or the gross margin derived from the wireless infrastructure located on the leased land interest. Approximately 75% and approximately 90% of the Company's site rental gross margins for the year ended December 31, 2015 are derived from towers where the land interest under the tower is owned or leased with final expiration dates of greater than 20 years and ten years, respectively, inclusive of renewals at the Company's option. The operating lease payments included in the table below include payments for certain renewal periods at the Company's option up to the estimated wireless infrastructure useful life of 20 years and an estimate of contingent payments based on revenues and gross margins derived from existing tenant leases.
Rental expense from operating leases was $657.1 million, $645.3 million, and $482.3 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013. The rental expense was inclusive of contingent payments based on revenues or gross margin derived from the wireless infrastructure located on the leased land interests of $91.8 million, $88.3 million, and $73.7 million, respectively, for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013. |
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- Definition This disclosure represents the Company’s tenant contracts and operating leases footnote. No definition available.
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- References No definition available.
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Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk |
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| Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risks | Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk Operating Segments The Company has determined that presently, following the sale of CCAL, it has one reportable operating segment consisting of its U.S. operations, which is consistent with its current operational and financial reporting structure. Financial results for the Company are currently reported to the Company's management team and board of directors in this manner. Prior to its sale in May 2015, CCAL, the Company's previously 77.6% owned subsidiary that owned and operated towers in Australia, was a reportable segment. As a result of the sale of CCAL, the Company's segment data has been reclassified for all periods presented to include CCAL on a discontinued operations basis. The Company will continue its evaluation of its operating segments following the disposition of CCAL and its change in strategic focus to its U.S. business. To the extent the Company makes changes to its financial reporting or organizational structure, including the integration of the Sunesys Acquisition, the Company will evaluate any impact such changes may have to its segment reporting. Major Customers The following table summarizes the percentage of the consolidated revenues for those customers accounting for more than 10% of the consolidated revenues.
Concentrations of Credit Risk Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of credit risk are primarily cash and cash equivalents, restricted cash and trade receivables. The Company mitigates its risk with respect to cash and cash equivalents by maintaining such deposits at high credit quality financial institutions and monitoring the credit ratings of those institutions. The Company's restricted cash is predominately held and directed by a trustee (see note 2). The Company derives the largest portion of its revenues from customers in the wireless industry. The Company also has a concentration in its volume of business with AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon Wireless, and Sprint or their agents that accounts for a significant portion of the Company's revenues, receivables, and deferred site rental receivables. The Company mitigates its concentrations of credit risk with respect to trade receivables by actively monitoring the creditworthiness of its tenants, the use of tenant leases with contractually determinable payment terms, or proactive management of past due balances. |
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- Definition Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for reporting segments including data and tables. Reportable segments include those that meet any of the following quantitative thresholds a) it's reported revenue, including sales to external customers and intersegment sales or transfers is 10 percent or more of the combined revenue, internal and external, of all operating segments b) the absolute amount of its reported profit or loss is 10 percent or more of the greater, in absolute amount of 1) the combined reported profit of all operating segments that did not report a loss or 2) the combined reported loss of all operating segments that did report a loss c) its assets are 10 percent or more of the combined assets of all operating segments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Supplemental Cash Flow Information |
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| Supplemental Cash Flow Information | Supplemental Cash Flow Information The following table is a summary of the supplemental cash flow information during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for supplemental cash flow activities, including cash, noncash, and part noncash transactions, for the period. Noncash is defined as information about all investing and financing activities of an enterprise during a period that affect recognized assets or liabilities but that do not result in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. "Part noncash" refers to that portion of the transaction not resulting in cash receipts or cash payments in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
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Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) |
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| Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) | Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) Summary quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:
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- Definition The entire disclosure for the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure may include a tabular presentation of financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income or loss before extraordinary items and earnings per share data. It also includes an indication if the information in the note is unaudited, comments on the aggregate effect of year-end adjustments, and an explanation of matters or transactions that affect comparability or are pertinent to an understanding of the information furnished. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Subsequent Events |
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Small Cells REIT Inclusion Effective January 2016, the Company's small cells that were previously included in one or more wholly-owned TRSs are included in the REIT. See note 11. 2016 Credit Facility On January 21, 2016, the Company completed a new $5.5 billion Senior Unsecured Credit Facility ("2016 Credit Facility"), consisting of a $2.5 billion Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility ("2016 Revolver") maturing on January 21, 2021, a $1.0 billion Senior Unsecured 364-Day Revolving Credit Facility ("364-Day Facility") maturing on January 19, 2017, and a $2.0 billion Senior Unsecured Term Loan A Facility ("2016 Term Loan A") maturing on January 21, 2021. As of February 15, 2016, the 364-Day Facility had been paid in full and terminated and there was $355 million drawn on the 2016 Revolver. The 2016 Credit Facility bears interest at a per annum rate equal to LIBOR plus 1.125% to 2.000%, based on the Company's senior unsecured debt rating. The proceeds of the loans under the 2016 Credit Facility, together with cash on hand, were used to repay all outstanding borrowings under the previously outstanding 2012 Credit Facility. The credit agreement governing the Company's 2016 Credit Facility contains financial maintenance covenants. The Company is currently in compliance with these financial maintenance covenants, and based upon current expectations, the Company believes it will continue to comply with its financial maintenance covenants. In addition, certain of the Company's debt agreements also contain restrictive covenants that place restrictions on CCIC or its subsidiaries and may limit the Company's ability to, among other things, incur additional debt and liens, purchase the Company's securities, make capital expenditures, dispose of assets, undertake transactions with affiliates, make other investments, pay dividends or distribute excess cash flow. 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes On February 8, 2016 the Company issued $1.5 billion aggregate principal amount of investment grade senior unsecured notes ("2016 Senior Unsecured Notes"), which consist of (1) $600.0 million aggregate principal amount of 3.4% Senior Notes with a final maturity date of February 2021, and (2) $900.0 million aggregate principal amount of 4.45% Senior Notes with a final maturity date of February 2026. The Company used the net proceeds from the 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes offering, together with cash on hand, to (1) repay in full all outstanding borrowings under the 364-Day Facility (and, in connection therewith, terminate all commitments thereunder), and (2) to repay $500.0 million of outstanding borrowings under the 2016 Revolver. Common Stock Dividend On February 18, 2016, the Company declared a quarterly common stock dividend of $0.885 per share, which was approved by the Company's board of directors. The common stock dividend will be paid on March 31, 2016 to common stockholders of record as of March 18, 2016. |
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for significant events or transactions that occurred after the balance sheet date through the date the financial statements were issued or the date the financial statements were available to be issued. Examples include: the sale of a capital stock issue, purchase of a business, settlement of litigation, catastrophic loss, significant foreign exchange rate changes, loans to insiders or affiliates, and transactions not in the ordinary course of business. No definition available.
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Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts |
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| Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] |
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- Definition Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition The entire disclosure for any allowance and reserve accounts (their beginning and ending balances, as well as a reconciliation by type of activity during the period). Alternatively, disclosure of the required information may be within the footnotes to the financial statements or a supplemental schedule to the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Schedule III - Schedule of Real Estate and Depreciation (Notes) |
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| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Text Block] |
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- Definition The entire disclosure of real estate investments and associated accumulated depreciation for entities with a significant portion of their business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies) |
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| Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Restricted Cash | Restricted Cash Restricted cash represents (1) the cash held in reserve by the indenture trustees pursuant to the indenture governing certain of the Company's debt instruments, (2) cash securing performance obligations such as letters of credit, as well as (3) any other cash whose use is limited by contractual provisions. The restriction of rental cash receipts is a critical feature of certain of the Company's debt instruments, due to the applicable indenture trustee's ability to utilize the restricted cash for the payment of (1) debt service costs, (2) ground rents, (3) real estate or personal property taxes, (4) insurance premiums related to towers, (5) other assessments by governmental authorities and potential environmental remediation costs, or (6) a portion of advance rents from tenants. The restricted cash in excess of required reserve balances is subsequently released to the Company in accordance with the terms of the indentures. The Company has classified the increases and decreases in restricted cash as (1) cash provided by financing activities for cash held by indenture trustees based on consideration of the terms of the related indebtedness, although the cash flows have aspects of both financing activities and operating activities, (2) cash provided by investing activities for cash securing performance obligations and restricted cash that is acquired in acquisitions, or (3) cash provided by operating activities for the other remaining restricted cash. The following table is a summary of the impact of restricted cash on the statement of cash flows.
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| Receivables Allowance | Receivables Allowance An allowance for doubtful accounts is recorded as an offset to accounts receivable. The Company uses judgment in estimating this allowance and considers historical collections, current credit status, or contractual provisions. Additions to the allowance for doubtful accounts are charged either to "site rental costs of operations" or to "network services and other costs of operations," as appropriate; and deductions from the allowance are recorded when specific accounts receivable are written off as uncollectible. |
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| Lease, Policy | Lease Accounting General. The Company classifies its leases at inception as either operating leases or capital leases. A lease is classified as a capital lease if at least one of the following criteria are met, subject to certain exceptions noted below: (1) the lease transfers ownership of the leased assets to the lessee, (2) there is a bargain purchase option, (3) the lease term is equal to 75% or more of the economic life of the leased assets, or (4) the present value of the minimum lease payments equals or exceeds 90% of the fair value of the leased assets. Lessee. Leases for land are evaluated for capital lease treatment if at least one of the first two criteria mentioned in the immediately preceding paragraph is present relating to the leased assets. When the Company, as lessee, classifies a lease as a capital lease, it records an asset in an amount equal to the present value of the minimum lease payments under the lease at the beginning of the lease term. Applicable operating leases are recognized on a straight-line basis as discussed under "costs of operations" below. Lessor. If the Company is the lessor of leased property that is part of a larger whole (including a portion of space on a tower) and for which fair value is not objectively determinable, then such a lease is accounted for as an operating lease. As applicable, operating leases are recognized on a straight-line basis as discussed under "Revenue Recognition." |
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| Property and Equipment | Property and Equipment Property and equipment is stated at cost, net of accumulated depreciation. Property and equipment includes land owned in fee and perpetual easements for land which have no definite life. When the Company purchases fee ownership or perpetual easements for the land previously subject to ground lease, the Company reduces the value recorded as land by the amount of any associated deferred ground lease payable or unamortized above-market leases. Depreciation is computed utilizing the straight-line method at rates based upon the estimated useful lives of the various classes of assets. Depreciation of wireless infrastructure is computed with a useful life equal to the shorter of 20 years or the term of the underlying ground lease (including optional renewal periods). Additions, renewals, and improvements are capitalized, while maintenance and repairs are expensed. Labor and interest costs incurred directly related to the construction of certain property and equipment are capitalized during the construction phase of projects. For the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, the Company had $36.7 million, $24.2 million and $17.6 million in capitalized labor costs, respectively. The carrying value of property and equipment is reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. Abandonments and write-offs of property and equipment are recorded to "asset write-downs charges" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) and were $27.0 million, $9.3 million, and $8.9 million for the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively. |
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| Asset Retirement Obligations | Asset Retirement Obligations Pursuant to its ground lease and easement agreements, the Company records obligations to perform asset retirement activities, including requirements to remove wireless infrastructure or remediate the land upon which the Company's wireless infrastructure resides. Asset retirement obligations are included in "other long-term liabilities" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. The liability accretes as a result of the passage of time and the related accretion expense is included in "depreciation, amortization, and accretion" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss). The associated asset retirement costs are capitalized as an additional carrying amount of the related long-lived asset and depreciated over the useful life of such asset. |
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| Goodwill | Goodwill Goodwill represents the excess of the purchase price for an acquired business over the allocated value of the related net assets. The Company tests goodwill for impairment on an annual basis, regardless of whether adverse events or changes in circumstances have occurred. The annual test begins with goodwill and all intangible assets being allocated to applicable reporting units. The Company then performs a qualitative assessment to determine whether it is "more likely than not" that the fair value of the reporting units is less than its carrying amount. If it is concluded that it is "more likely than not" that the fair value of a reporting unit is less than its carrying amount, it is necessary to perform the two-step goodwill impairment test. The two-step goodwill impairment test begins with a comparison of the estimated fair value of the reporting unit and the carrying value of the reporting unit. The first step, commonly referred to as a "step-one impairment test," is a screen for potential impairment while the second step measures the amount of impairment if there is an indication from the first step that one exists. The Company's measurement of the fair value for goodwill is based on an estimate of discounted expected future cash flows of the reporting unit. The Company performed its most recent annual goodwill impairment test as of October 1, 2015, which resulted in no impairments. |
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| Intangible Assets | Intangible Assets Intangible assets are included in "site rental contracts and customer relationships, net" and "other intangible assets, net" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet and predominately consist of the estimated fair value of the following items recorded in conjunction with acquisitions: (1) site rental contracts and customer relationships, (2) below-market leases for land interest under the acquired wireless infrastructure, or (3) other contractual rights such as trademarks. The site rental contracts and customer relationships intangible assets are comprised of (1) the current term of the existing leases, (2) the expected exercise of the renewal provisions contained within the existing leases, which automatically occur under contractual provisions, or (3) any associated relationships that are expected to generate value following the expiration of all renewal periods under existing leases. The useful lives of intangible assets are estimated based on the period over which the intangible asset is expected to benefit the Company and gives consideration to the expected useful life of other assets to which the useful life may relate. Amortization expense for intangible assets is computed using the straight-line method over the estimated useful life of each of the intangible assets. The useful life of the site rental contracts and customer relationships intangible asset is limited by the maximum depreciable life of the wireless infrastructure (20 years), as a result of the interdependency of the wireless infrastructure and site rental leases. In contrast, the site rental contracts and customer relationships are estimated to provide economic benefits for several decades because of the low rate of tenant cancellations and high rate of renewals experienced to date. Thus, while site rental contracts and customer relationships are valued based upon the fair value, which includes assumptions regarding both (1) tenants' exercise of optional renewals contained in the acquired leases and (2) renewals of the acquired leases past the contractual term including exercisable options, the site rental contracts and customer relationships are amortized over a period not to exceed 20 years as a result of the useful life being limited by the depreciable life of the wireless infrastructure. The carrying value of other intangible assets with finite useful lives will be reviewed for impairment whenever events or changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount of the assets may not be recoverable. The Company has a dual grouping policy for purposes of determining the unit of account for testing impairment of the site rental contracts and customer relationships intangible assets. First, the Company pools the site rental contracts and customer relationships with the related wireless infrastructure assets into portfolio groups for purposes of determining the unit of account for impairment testing. Second and separately, the Company evaluates the site rental contracts and customer relationships by significant tenant or by tenant grouping for individually insignificant tenants, as appropriate. If the sum of the estimated future cash flows (undiscounted) expected to result from the use or eventual disposition of an asset is less than the carrying amount of the asset, an impairment loss is recognized. Measurement of an impairment loss is based on the fair value of the asset. |
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| Deferred Credits | Deferred Credits Deferred credits are included in “deferred revenues” and “other long-term liabilities” on the Company's consolidated balance sheet and consist of the estimated fair value of the following items recorded in conjunction with acquisitions: (1) below-market tenant leases for contractual interests with tenants on acquired wireless infrastructure, which are amortized to site rental revenues and (2) above-market leases for land interests under the Company's wireless infrastructure, which are amortized to site rental cost of operations. Fair value for these deferred credits represents the difference between (1) the stated contractual payments to be made pursuant to the in-place lease and (2) management's estimate of fair market lease rates for each corresponding lease. Deferred credits are measured over a period equal to the estimated remaining economic lease term considering renewal provisions or economics associated with those renewal provisions, to the extent applicable. Deferred credits are amortized over their respected estimated lease terms at the time of acquisition. |
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| Deferred Financing Costs | Deferred Financing Costs Third-party costs incurred to obtain financing are deferred and are included in "long-term prepaid rent, deferred financing costs, and other assets, net" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. |
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| Revenue Recognition | Revenue Recognition Site rental revenues are recognized on a monthly basis over the fixed, non-cancelable term of the relevant lease (generally ranging from five to 15 years), regardless of whether the payments from the tenant are received in equal monthly amounts. The Company's leases contain fixed escalation clauses (such as fixed dollar or fixed percentage increases) or inflation-based escalation clauses (such as those tied to the consumer price index ("CPI")). If the payment terms call for fixed escalations, upfront payments, or rent free periods, the revenue is recognized on a straight-line basis over the fixed, non-cancelable term of the agreement. When calculating straight-line rental revenues, the Company considers all fixed elements of tenant contractual escalation provisions, even if such escalation provisions contain a variable element in addition to a minimum. The Company's assets related to straight-line site rental revenues are included in "other current assets" and "deferred site rental receivables." Amounts billed or received prior to being earned are deferred and reflected in "deferred revenues" and "other long-term liabilities." Network services revenues are recognized after completion of the applicable service. Nearly all of the installation services are billed on a cost-plus profit basis and site development services are billed on a fixed fee basis. Sales taxes or value-added taxes collected from customers and remitted to governmental authorities are presented on a net basis. |
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| Cost of Operations | Costs of Operations In excess of two-thirds of the Company's site rental costs of operations expenses consist of ground lease expenses, and the remainder includes property taxes, repairs and maintenance expenses, employee compensation or related benefit costs, or utilities. Generally, the ground leases for land are specific to each site and are for an initial term of five years and are renewable for pre-determined periods. The Company also enters into term easements and ground leases in which it prepays the entire term in advance. Ground lease expense is recognized on a monthly basis, regardless of whether the lease agreement payment terms require the Company to make payments annually, quarterly, monthly, or for the entire term in advance. The Company's ground leases contain fixed escalation clauses (such as fixed dollar or fixed percentage increases) or inflation-based escalation clauses (such as those tied to the CPI). If the payment terms include fixed escalation provisions, the effect of such increases is recognized on a straight-line basis. The Company calculates the straight-line ground lease expense using a time period that equals or exceeds the remaining depreciable life of the wireless infrastructure asset. Further, when a tenant has exercisable renewal options that would compel the Company to exercise existing ground lease renewal options, the Company has straight-lined the ground lease expense over a sufficient portion of such ground lease renewals to coincide with the final termination of the tenant's renewal options. The Company's non-current liability related to straight-line ground lease expense is included in "other long-term liabilities" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. The Company's assets related to prepaid ground leases is included in "prepaid expenses" and "long-term prepaid rent, deferred financing costs and other assets, net" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. |
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| Acquisition and Integration Costs | Acquisition and Integration Costs All direct or incremental costs related to a business combination are expensed as incurred. Costs include severance, retention bonuses payable to employees of an acquired enterprise, temporary employees to assist with the integration of the acquired operations, or fees paid for services such as consulting, accounting, legal, or engineering reviews. These business combination costs are included in "acquisition and integration costs" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss). See note 4 for a discussion of our acquisitions during 2013, 2014, and 2015. In addition, during 2012, the Company acquired (1) rights to approximately 7,100 towers through the T-Mobile Acquisition and (2) NextG Networks, Inc., the then largest U.S operator of outdoor distributed antenna systems ("DAS"), a type of small cells. |
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| Stock-Based Compensation | Stock-Based Compensation Restricted Stock Awards and Restricted Stock Units. The Company records stock-based compensation expense only for those unvested restricted stock awards ("RSAs") and unvested restricted stock units ("RSUs") for which the requisite service is expected to be rendered. The cumulative effect of a change in the estimated number of RSAs and RSUs for which the requisite service is expected to be or has been rendered is recognized in the period of the change in the estimate. To the extent that the requisite service is rendered, compensation cost for accounting purposes is not reversed; rather, it is recognized regardless of whether or not the awards vest. A discussion of the Company's valuation techniques and related assumptions and estimates used to measure the Company's stock-based compensation is as follows: Valuation. The fair value of RSAs and RSUs without market conditions is determined based on the number of shares relating to such RSAs and RSUs and the quoted price of the Company's common stock at the date of grant. The Company estimates the fair value of RSAs and RSUs with market conditions granted using a Monte Carlo simulation. The Company's determination of the fair value of RSAs and RSUs with market conditions on the date of grant is affected by its common stock price as well as assumptions regarding a number of highly complex or subjective variables. The determination of fair value using a Monte Carlo simulation requires the input of subjective assumptions, and other reasonable assumptions could provide differing results. Amortization Method. The Company amortizes the fair value of all RSAs and RSUs on a straight-line basis for each separately vesting tranche of the award (graded vesting schedule) over the requisite service periods. Expected Volatility. The Company estimates the volatility of its common stock at the date of grant based on the historical volatility of its common stock. Expected Dividend Rate. The expected dividend rate at the date of grant is based on the then-current dividend yield. Risk-Free Rate. The Company bases the risk-free rate on the implied yield currently available on U.S. Treasury issues with an equivalent remaining term equal to the expected life of the award. Forfeitures. The Company uses historical data and management's judgment about the future employee turnover rates to estimate the number of shares for which the requisite service period will not be rendered. |
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| Interest Expense and Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs | Interest Expense and Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs The components of interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs are as follows:
The Company amortizes deferred financing costs, discounts, premiums, and purchase price adjustments on long-term debt over the estimated term of the related borrowing using the effective interest yield method. Discounts or purchase price adjustments are presented as a reduction to the related debt obligation on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. |
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| Income Taxes | Income Taxes Effective January 1, 2014, the Company commenced operating as a REIT for U.S. federal income tax purposes. As a REIT, the Company is generally entitled to a deduction for dividends that it pays and therefore is not subject to U.S. federal corporate income tax on its taxable income that is currently distributed to its stockholders. The Company also may be subject to certain federal, state, local, and foreign taxes on its income and assets, including (1) alternative minimum taxes, (2) taxes on any undistributed income, (3) taxes related to the TRSs, (4) certain state, local, or foreign income taxes, (5) franchise taxes, (6) property taxes, and (7) transfer taxes. In addition, the Company could in certain circumstances be required to pay an excise or penalty tax, which could be significant in amount, in order to utilize one or more relief provisions under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended ("Code"), to maintain qualification for taxation as a REIT. In August 2014, the Company received a favorable private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"), which provides that the real property portion of the Company's small cells and the related rents qualify as real property and rents from real property, respectively, under the rules governing REITs. During the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company completed the necessary steps to include small cells that were previously included in one or more wholly-owned TRSs in the REIT effective January 2016. As a result, during the fourth quarter of 2015, the Company de-recognized the related net deferred tax liabilities. See note 11. Additionally, the Company has included in TRSs certain other assets and operations. Those TRS assets and operations will continue to be subject, as applicable, to federal and state corporate income taxes or to foreign taxes in the jurisdictions in which such assets and operations are located. The Company's foreign assets and operations (including its tower operations in Puerto Rico) most likely will be subject to foreign income taxes in the jurisdictions in which such assets and operations are located, regardless of whether they are included in a TRS or not. The Company will be subject to a federal corporate level tax rate (currently 35%) on the gain recognized from the sale of assets occurring within a specified period (generally 10 years) after the REIT conversion up to the amount of the built in gain that existed on January 1, 2014, which is based upon the fair market value of those assets in excess of the Company's tax basis on January 1, 2014. This gain can be offset by any remaining federal net operating loss carryforwards ("NOLs"). For the Company's TRSs, the Company accounts for income taxes using an asset and liability approach, which requires the recognition of deferred income tax assets and liabilities for the expected future tax consequences of events that have been recognized in the Company's financial statements or tax returns. Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are determined based on the temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted tax rates. A valuation allowance is provided on deferred tax assets if it is determined that it is "more likely than not" that the asset will not be realized. The Company records a valuation allowance against deferred tax assets when it is "more likely than not" that some portion or all of the deferred tax asset will not be realized. The Company reviews the recoverability of deferred tax assets each quarter and based upon projections of future taxable income, reversing deferred tax liabilities or other known events that are expected to affect future taxable income, records a valuation allowance for assets that do not meet the "more likely than not" realization threshold. Valuation allowances may be reversed if related deferred tax assets are deemed realizable based upon changes in facts and circumstances that impact the recoverability of the asset. The Company recognizes a tax position if it is "more likely than not" that it will be sustained upon examination. The tax position is measured at the largest amount that is greater than 50 percent likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement. The Company reports penalties and tax-related interest expense as a component of the benefit (provision) for income taxes. As of December 31, 2015 and 2014, the Company has not recorded any penalties related to its income tax positions. |
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| Per Share Information | Per Share Information Basic net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share excludes dilution and is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period. Diluted income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share is computed by dividing net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders by the weighted-average number of common shares outstanding during the period plus any potential dilutive common share equivalents, including shares issuable (1) upon the vesting of RSAs and RSUs as determined under the treasury stock method and (2) upon conversion of the Company's Convertible Preferred Stock (as defined in note 12), as determined under the if-converted method. A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations is as follows:
For the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, 11.4 million and 12.5 million common share equivalents related to the Convertible Preferred Stock, respectively, were excluded from the dilutive common shares because the impact of such conversion would be anti-dilutive, based on the Company's common stock price as of the end of each such year. See notes 12 and 13. |
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| Fair Values | Fair Values The Company's assets and liabilities recorded at fair value are categorized based upon a fair value hierarchy that ranks the quality and reliability of the information used to determine fair value. The three levels of the fair value hierarchy are (1) Level 1 — quoted prices (unadjusted) in active and accessible markets, (2) Level 2 — observable prices that are based on inputs not quoted in active markets but corroborated by market data, and (3) Level 3 — unobservable inputs and are not corroborated by market data. The Company evaluates fair value hierarchy level classifications quarterly, and transfers between levels are effective at the end of the quarterly period. The fair value of cash and cash equivalents and restricted cash approximate the carrying value. The Company determines the fair value of its debt securities based on indicative quotes (that is non-binding quotes) from brokers that require judgment to interpret market information including implied credit spreads for similar borrowings on recent trades or bid/ask prices or quotes from active markets if applicable. Foreign currency swaps are valued at settlement amounts using observable exchange rates and, if material, reflect an adjustment for the Company's and contract counterparty's credit risk. There were no changes since December 31, 2014 in the Company's valuation techniques used to measure fair values. See note 10 for a further discussion of fair values. |
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| Derivative Instruments | Swaps Interest Rate Swaps. The Company had previously entered into interest rate swaps to manage or reduce its interest rate risk. Derivative financial instruments were entered into for periods that matched the related underlying exposures. The Company can designate derivative financial instruments as hedges. The Company can also enter into derivative financial instruments that are not designated as accounting hedges. Derivatives were recognized on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value. If the derivative was designated as a cash flow hedge, the effective portion of the change in the fair value of the derivative was recorded as a separate component of stockholders' equity, captioned "accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet, and recognized as increases or decreases to "interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss) when the hedged item affects earnings. If a hedge ceased to qualify for hedge accounting, any change in the fair value of the derivative since the date it ceased to qualify was recorded to "net gain (loss) on interest rate swaps." However, any amounts previously recorded to "accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" would remain there until the original forecasted transaction affected earnings. In situations where it becomes probable that the hedged forecasted transaction will not occur, any gains or losses that have been recorded to "accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)" are immediately reclassified to earnings. See note 9. Foreign Currency Swaps. During 2015, the Company entered into foreign currency swaps to manage and reduce its foreign currency risk related to its sale of CCAL (see note 3). The derivatives were recognized on the consolidated balance sheet at fair value as of December 31, 2015. These swaps are not designated as accounting hedges and as such, the corresponding gain (loss) on the fair value adjustment is included as a component of "other income (expense)" on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss). See note 9. In January 2016, the previously outstanding swap related to the installment payment received from the Buyer (as defined in note 3) was cash settled. |
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| Recent Accounting Pronouncements | Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements In April 2014, the Financial Accounting Standards Board ("FASB") issued new guidance on the implementation and presentation of discontinued operations titled ASU 2014-08, Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity ("ASU 2014-08"). The guidance requires that only disposals that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on the entity's results and operations qualify as discontinued operations. In addition, the new guidance expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of discontinued operations. The new guidance was effective for the Company on January 1, 2015, and the Company has applied the new guidance to the sale of CCAL. See note 3. In November 2015, the FASB issued new guidance on the presentation of deferred tax assets and liabilities. The guidance requires deferred tax assets and liabilities to be presented as non-current on the balance sheet. The guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2017 and early adoption is permitted. The Company adopted this guidance on December 31, 2015 on a prospective basis. As such, the prior periods presented within the Company's consolidated financial statements were not retrospectively adjusted. See note 11. Recent Accounting Pronouncements Not Yet Adopted In April 2015, the FASB issued new guidance on the presentation of debt issuance costs. The guidance requires debt issuance costs to be presented in the balance sheet as a direct deduction from the carrying amount of the related debt liability, consistent with debt discounts and premiums. The update requires retrospective application and the guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2016. The Company will adopt the guidance on January 1, 2016. As of December 31, 2015, net deferred financing costs were $107.7 million and were recorded as a component of "long-term prepaid rent, deferred financing costs and other assets, net" on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. In May 2014, the FASB released updated guidance regarding the recognition of revenue from contracts with customers, exclusive of those contracts within lease accounting. The core principle of the guidance is that an entity should recognize revenue to depict the transfer of promised goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. To achieve that core principle, an entity should apply the following steps: (1) identify the contracts with the customer; (2) identify the performance obligations in the contract; (3) determine the contract price; (4) allocate the transaction price to the performance obligations in the contract; and (5) recognize revenue when (or as) the entity satisfies a performance obligation. This guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2018, following the FASB's July 2015 decision to defer the effective date of the standard by one year. This guidance is required to be applied, at the Company's election, either (1) retrospectively to each prior reporting period presented, or (2) with the cumulative effect being recognized at the date of initial application. The Company is evaluating the guidance, including the impact on its consolidated financial statements. In September 2015, the FASB issued new guidance which requires an acquirer to recognize adjustments to provisional amounts that are identified during the measurement period in the reporting period in which the adjustment amounts are determined. The update requires prospective application and the guidance is effective for the Company on January 1, 2016, with early adoption permitted. The Company does not expect the standard to have a material impact to its consolidated financial statements upon initial adoption. |
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- Definition Policy for accounting for deferred credits No definition available.
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- Definition Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for determining amounts to accrue and charge against earnings so as to satisfy legal obligations associated with the retirement (through sale, abandonment, recycling, or disposal in some other manner) of a tangible long-lived asset that result from the acquisition, construction, or development and (or) the normal operation of a long-lived asset. This accounting policy disclosure excludes obligations arising 1) in connection with leased property, whether imposed by a lease agreement or by a party other than the lessor, that meet the definition of either minimum lease payments or contingent rentals; 2) solely from a plan to sell or otherwise dispose of a long-lived asset and 3) from certain environmental remediation liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for completed business combinations (purchase method, acquisition method or combination of entities under common control). This accounting policy may include a general discussion of the purchase method or acquisition method of accounting (including for example, the treatment accorded contingent consideration, the identification of assets and liabilities, the purchase price allocation process, how the fair values of acquired assets and liabilities are determined) and the entity's specific application thereof. An entity that acquires another entity in a leveraged buyout transaction generally discloses the accounting policy followed by the acquiring entity in determining the basis used to value its interest in the acquired entity, and the rationale for that accounting policy. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Entity's cash and cash equivalents accounting policy with respect to restricted balances. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or company statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for recognition of costs in the period which correspond to the sales and revenue categories presented in the statement of operations. The accounting policy may include the amount and nature of costs incurred, provisions associated with inventories, purchase discounts, freight and other costs included in cost of sales incurred and recorded in the period. This disclosure also includes the nature of costs of sales incurred and recorded in the statement of operations for the period relating to transactions with related parties. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for deferral and amortization of significant deferred charges. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for its derivative instruments and hedging activities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for computing basic and diluted earnings or loss per share for each class of common stock and participating security. Addresses all significant policy factors, including any antidilutive items that have been excluded from the computation and takes into account stock dividends, splits and reverse splits that occur after the balance sheet date of the latest reporting period but before the issuance of the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for determining the fair value of financial instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for goodwill. This accounting policy also may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of goodwill, how reporting units are determined, how goodwill is allocated to such units, and how the fair values of the reporting units are determined. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for intangible assets. This accounting policy may address both intangible assets subject to amortization and those that are not. The following also may be disclosed: (1) a description of intangible assets (2) the estimated useful lives of those assets (3) the amortization method used (4) how the entity assesses and measures impairment of such assets (5) how future cash flows are estimated (6) how the fair values of such asset are determined. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for income taxes, which may include its accounting policies for recognizing and measuring deferred tax assets and liabilities and related valuation allowances, recognizing investment tax credits, operating loss carryforwards, tax credit carryforwards, and other carryforwards, methodologies for determining its effective income tax rate and the characterization of interest and penalties in the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for recognizing interest expense, including the method of amortizing debt issuance costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for leasing arrangements (both lessor and lessee). This disclosure may address (1) lease classification (that is, operating versus capital), (2) how the term of a lease is determined (for example, the circumstances in which a renewal option is considered part of the lease term), (3) how rental revenue or expense is recognized for a lease that contains rent escalations, (4) an entity's accounting treatment for deferred rent, including that which arises from lease incentives, rent abatements, rent holidays, or tenant allowances (5) an entity's accounting treatment for contingent rental payments and (6) an entity's policy for reviewing, at least annually, the residual values of sales-type and direct-finance leases. The disclosure also may indicate how the entity accounts for its capital leases, leveraged leases or sale-leaseback transactions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy pertaining to new accounting pronouncements that may impact the entity's financial reporting. Includes, but is not limited to, quantification of the expected or actual impact. No definition available.
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for long-lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Includes, but is not limited to, basis of assets, depreciation and depletion methods used, including composite deprecation, estimated useful lives, capitalization policy, accounting treatment for costs incurred for repairs and maintenance, capitalized interest and the method it is calculated, disposals and impairments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for revenue recognition. If the entity has different policies for different types of revenue transactions, the policy for each material type of transaction is generally disclosed. If a sales transaction has multiple element arrangements (for example, delivery of multiple products, services or the rights to use assets) the disclosure may indicate the accounting policy for each unit of accounting as well as how units of accounting are determined and valued. The disclosure may encompass important judgment as to appropriateness of principles related to recognition of revenue. The disclosure also may indicate the entity's treatment of any unearned or deferred revenue that arises from the transaction. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for stock option and stock incentive plans. This disclosure may include (1) the types of stock option or incentive plans sponsored by the entity (2) the groups that participate in (or are covered by) each plan (3) significant plan provisions and (4) how stock compensation is measured, and the methodologies and significant assumptions used to determine that measurement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Disclosure of accounting policy for trade and other accounts receivables. This disclosure may include the basis at which such receivables are carried in the entity's statements of financial position (for example, net realizable value), how the entity determines the level of its allowance for doubtful accounts, when impairments, charge-offs or recoveries are recognized, and the entity's income recognition policies for such receivables, including its treatment of related fees and costs, its treatment of premiums, discounts or unearned income, when accrual of interest is discontinued, how the entity records payments received on nonaccrual receivables and its policy for resuming accrual of interest on such receivables. If the enterprise holds a large number of similar loans, disclosure may include the accounting policy for the anticipation of prepayments and significant assumptions underlying prepayment estimates for amortization of premiums, discounts, and nonrefundable fees and costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Tables) |
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| Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents | The following table is a summary of the impact of restricted cash on the statement of cash flows.
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| Components of Interest Expense and Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs | The components of interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs are as follows:
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| Reconciliation of the Numerators and Denominators of the Basic and Diluted Per Share Computations | A reconciliation of the numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per share computations is as follows:
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- Definition Schedule of interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs. No definition available.
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- Definition Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of an entity's basic and diluted earnings per share calculations, including a reconciliation of numerators and denominators of the basic and diluted per-share computations for income from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the cash and cash items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. The provisions of any restrictions are described in a note to the financial statements. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against short-term borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Discontinued Operations (Tables) |
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| Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of information related to a disposal group. Includes, but is not limited to, a discontinued operation, disposal classified as held-for-sale or disposed of by means other than sale or disposal of an individually significant component. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Acquisitions Acquisitions (Tables) |
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| Business Combinations [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule Purchase Price Allocation |
AT&T Acquisition During October 2013, the Company entered into a definitive agreement with AT&T, to acquire rights to towers which, as of December 31, 2015, comprised approximately 23% of the Company's towers for $4.827 billion in cash at closing ("AT&T Acquisition"). On December 16, 2013, the Company closed on the acquisition. See note 1 for further discussion of the terms of the AT&T master prepaid lease, including the related purchase option. The Company utilized net proceeds from the October 2013 Equity Financings (as defined in note 12), and additional borrowings under the 2012 Revolver (as defined in note 8) and term loans to fund the AT&T Acquisition, as well as cash on hand. The final purchase price allocation for the AT&T Acquisition is shown below.
(a)Inclusive of above-market leases for land interests under the Company's towers. (b)No deferred taxes were recorded as a result of the Company's REIT election. See note 11. |
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| Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information | The following table presents the unaudited pro forma consolidated results of operations of the Company as if the AT&T Acquisition was completed as of January 1, 2013. The unaudited pro forma amounts are presented for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily indicative of future consolidated results of operations.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of pro forma results of operations for a material business acquisition or series of individually immaterial business acquisitions that are material in the aggregate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of a material business combination completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. This table does not include leveraged buyouts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Property and Equipment (Tables) |
12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Major Classes of Property and Equipment | The major classes of property and equipment are as follows:
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Includes, but is not limited to, balances by class of assets, depreciation and depletion expense and method used, including composite depreciation, and accumulated deprecation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Tables) |
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| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Goodwill | Goodwill The changes in the carrying value of goodwill for the years ended December 31, 2015 and December 31, 2014 were as follows:
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| Intangible Assets | The following is a summary of the Company's intangible assets. See note 4 for further discussion of the Company's acquisitions.
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| Schedule of Amortization Expense | Amortization expense related to intangible assets is classified as follows on the Company's consolidated statement of operations and comprehensive income (loss):
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| Site Rental Contracts and Customer Relationships [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Estimated Annual Amortization Expense | The estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets (inclusive of those recorded as an increase to "site rental costs of operations") for the years ended December 31, 2016 to 2020 is as follows:
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of amortization expense of assets, excluding financial assets, that lack physical substance, having a limited useful life. No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life, by either major class or business segment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of goodwill by reportable segment and in total which includes a rollforward schedule. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the amount of amortization expense expected to be recorded in succeeding fiscal years for finite-lived intangible assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Details
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Other Liabilities (Tables) |
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| Other Liabilities [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Other Noncurrent Liabilities | The following is a summary of the components of "other long-term liabilities" as presented on the Company's consolidated balance sheet. See also note 2.
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| Schedule of Above Market Leases | The estimated amortization expense related to above-market leases for land interests under the Company's towers recorded to site rental costs of operations for the years ended December 31, 2016 to 2020 is as follows:
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| Amortization of below-market tenant leases | The following table summarizes the estimated annual amounts related to below-market tenant leases expected to be amortized into site rental revenues for the years ended December 31, 2016 to 2020 are as follows:
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- Definition Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases [Table Text Block] No definition available.
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of other noncurrent liabilities. No definition available.
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Debt and Other Obligations (Tables) |
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| Debt and Other Obligations [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments |
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| Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt | Notes. Contractual Maturities The following are the scheduled contractual maturities of the total debt or other long-term obligations outstanding at December 31, 2015. These maturities reflect contractual maturity dates and do not consider the principal payments that will commence following the anticipated repayment dates on the Tower Revenue Notes. If the Tower Revenue Notes are not paid in full on or prior to their respective anticipated repayment dates, as applicable, then the Excess Cash Flow (as defined in the indenture) of the issuers of such notes will be used to repay principal of the applicable series and class of the Tower Revenue Notes, and additional interest (of an additional approximately 5% per annum) will accrue on the Tower Revenue Notes. See also note 19.
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| Schedule of Extinguishment of Debt | Debt Purchases and Redemptions The following is a summary of the purchases and redemptions of debt during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013.
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- Definition Debt and Other Obligations [Abstract} No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Tabular disclosure of information pertaining to short-term and long-debt instruments or arrangements, including but not limited to identification of terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of debt extinguished which may include, amount of gain (loss), the income tax effect and the per share amount of the aggregate gain (loss), net of the related income tax. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the combined aggregate amount of maturities and sinking fund requirements for all long-term borrowings for each of the five years following the date of the latest balance sheet date presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Swaps Foreign Currency Swaps (Tables) |
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Dec. 31, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign Currency Swaps [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Other Derivatives Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Statements of Financial Performance and Financial Position, Location [Table Text Block] |
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- Definition Foreign Currency Swaps [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of pertinent information about a derivative or group of derivatives on a disaggregated basis, such as for individual instruments, or small groups of similar instruments. May include a combination of the type of instrument, risks being hedged, notional amount, hedge designation, related hedged item, inception date, maturity date, or other relevant item. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Fair Value Disclosures (Tables) |
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| Fair Value Disclosures | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Estimated Fair Values and Carrying Amounts of Assets and Liabilities | The following table shows the estimated fair values of the Company's financial instruments, along with the carrying amounts of the related assets (liabilities). See also note 2.
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- Definition Fair Value Disclosures No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the fair value of financial instruments, including financial assets and financial liabilities, and the measurements of those instruments, assets, and liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Income Taxes (Tables) |
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Dec. 31, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Taxes [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes | Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes by geographic area is as follows:
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| Benefit (Provision) for Income Taxes | The benefit (provision) for income taxes consists of the following:
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| Effective Tax Rate | A reconciliation between the benefit (provision) for income taxes and the amount computed by applying the federal statutory income tax rate to the income (loss) before income taxes is as follows:
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| Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities | The components of the net deferred income tax assets and liabilities are as follows:
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| Jurisdictional Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities | The components of the net deferred income tax assets (liabilities) are as follows:
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| Schedule of Unrecognized Tax Benefits Roll Forward | The aggregate changes in the balance of unrecognized tax benefits are as follows:
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- Definition Income Taxes [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition A table representing the jurisdictional components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities disclosed as gross, the associtated valuation allowance, and net. No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the components of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations for each year presented including, but not limited to: current tax expense (benefit), deferred tax expense (benefit), investment tax credits, government grants, the benefits of operating loss carryforwards, tax expense that results from allocating certain tax benefits either directly to contributed capital or to reduce goodwill or other noncurrent intangible assets of an acquired entity, adjustments of a deferred tax liability or asset for enacted changes in tax laws or rates or a change in the tax status of the entity, and adjustments of the beginning-of-the-year balances of a valuation allowance because of a change in circumstances that causes a change in judgment about the realizability of the related deferred tax asset in future years. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the components of net deferred tax asset or liability recognized in an entity's statement of financial position, including the following: the total of all deferred tax liabilities, the total of all deferred tax assets, the total valuation allowance recognized for deferred tax assets. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation using percentage or dollar amounts of the reported amount of income tax expense attributable to continuing operations for the year to the amount of income tax expense that would result from applying domestic federal statutory tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of income before income tax between domestic and foreign jurisdictions. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the change in unrecognized tax benefits. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Stockholders' Equity Dividends Declared (Tables) |
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| Dividends Declared [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends Declared | During the year ended December 31, 2015, the following dividends were declared or paid:
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- Definition Dividends Declared [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of information related to dividends declared, including paid and unpaid dividends. No definition available.
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Stockholders' Equity Nature of Dividends Declared (Tax Treatment) (Tables) |
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| Equity [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tax Treatment of Dividends Paid [Table Text Block] | The following table summarizes, for income tax purposes, the nature of dividends paid during 2015 on the Company's common stock and Convertible Preferred Stock.
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- Definition [Table Text Block] for Tax Treatment of Dividends Paid [Table] No definition available.
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- References No definition available.
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Stock-based Compensation (Tables) |
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| Share-based Compensation [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Summary of Restricted Stock Awards Activity | The following is a summary of the RSA and RSU activity during the year ended December 31, 2015.
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| Summary of the Assumptions Used in the Monte Carlo Simulation to Determine the Grant-Date Fair Value | The following table summarizes the assumptions used in the Monte Carlo simulation to determine the grant-date fair value for the awards granted during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014, and 2013, respectively, with market conditions.
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| Summary of Restricted Stock Vested | The following table is a summary of the awards vested during the three years ended December 31, 2015.
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| Stock Based Compensation Expense | The following table discloses the components of stock-based compensation expense.
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- Definition Summary of the Assumptions Used in the Monte Carlo Simulation to Determine the Grant-Date Fair Value No definition available.
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- Definition Disclosure of the number of restricted stock units and restricted stock awards that vested during the period and the fair value on the vesting date. No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the allocation of equity-based compensation costs to a given line item on the balance sheet and income statement for the period. This may include the reporting line for the costs and the amount capitalized and expensed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of share-based compensation plans that may be presented in a single table for outstanding, vested and expected to vest, and exercisable awards. The information that may be disclosed in this table may include, but is not limited to, number of shares, weighted average exercise price, weighted average remaining contractual life, and aggregate intrinsic value. No definition available.
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- References No definition available.
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Leases (Tables) |
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| Leases [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Tenant Leases | Tenant Leases The following table is a summary of the rental cash payments owed to the Company, as a lessor, by tenants pursuant to contractual agreements in effect as of December 31, 2015. Generally, the Company's leases with its tenants provide for (1) annual escalations, (2) multiple renewal periods at the tenant's option, and (3) only limited termination rights at the applicable tenant's option through the current term. As of December 31, 2015, the weighted-average remaining term of tenant leases is approximately six years, exclusive of renewals at the tenant's option. The tenants' rental payments included in the table below are through the current terms with a maximum current term of 20 years and do not assume exercise of tenant renewal options.
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| Operating Leases | Operating Leases The following table is a summary of rental cash payments owed by the Company, as lessee, to landlords pursuant to contractual agreements in effect as of December 31, 2015. The Company is obligated under non-cancelable operating leases for land interests under 78% of its towers. The majority of these lease agreements have (1) certain termination rights that provide for cancellation after a notice period, (2) multiple renewal options at the Company's option, and (3) annual escalations. Lease agreements may also contain provisions for a contingent payment based on revenues or the gross margin derived from the wireless infrastructure located on the leased land interest. Approximately 75% and approximately 90% of the Company's site rental gross margins for the year ended December 31, 2015 are derived from towers where the land interest under the tower is owned or leased with final expiration dates of greater than 20 years and ten years, respectively, inclusive of renewals at the Company's option. The operating lease payments included in the table below include payments for certain renewal periods at the Company's option up to the estimated wireless infrastructure useful life of 20 years and an estimate of contingent payments based on revenues and gross margins derived from existing tenant leases.
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of future minimum payments required in the aggregate and for each of the five succeeding fiscal years for operating leases having initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year and the total minimum rentals to be received in the future under noncancelable subleases as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of rental expense from operating leases for each period for which an income statement is presented with separate amounts for minimum rentals, contingent rentals, and sublease rentals. Rental payments under leases with terms of a month or less that were not renewed need not be included. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk (Tables) |
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| Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| A Summary of the Percentage of the Consolidated Revenues for Those Customers Accounting for More than 10% of the Consolidated Revenues | The following table summarizes the percentage of the consolidated revenues for those customers accounting for more than 10% of the consolidated revenues.
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- Definition Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk [Abstract] No definition available.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of the extent of the entity's reliance on its major customers, if revenues from transactions with a single external customer amount to 10 percent or more of entity revenues, including the disclosure of that fact, the total amount of revenues from each such customer, and the identity of the reportable segment or segments reporting the revenues. The entity need not disclose the identity of a major customer or the amount of revenues that each segment reports from that customer. For these purposes, a group of companies known to the entity to be under common control is considered a single customer, and the federal government, a state government, a local government such as a county or municipality, or a foreign government is each considered a single customer. No definition available.
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Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Tables) |
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| Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information and Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities | The following table is a summary of the supplemental cash flow information during the years ended December 31, 2015, 2014 and 2013.
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- Definition Tabular disclosure of supplemental cash flow information for the periods presented. No definition available.
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- References No definition available.
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Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Tables) |
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Dec. 31, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) | Summary quarterly financial information for the years ended December 31, 2015 and 2014 is as follows:
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Tabular disclosure of the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements. The disclosure includes financial information for each fiscal quarter for the current and previous year, including revenues, gross profit, income (loss) before extraordinary items and cumulative effect of a change in accounting principle and earnings per share data. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
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Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Allowance for Doubtful Accounts (Tables) |
12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Dec. 31, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block] |
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The entire disclosure for any allowance and reserve accounts (their beginning and ending balances, as well as a reconciliation by type of activity during the period). Alternatively, disclosure of the required information may be within the footnotes to the financial statements or a supplemental schedule to the financial statements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
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Schedule III - Schedule of Real Estate and Depreciation Schedule of Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation (Tables) |
12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Dec. 31, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Text Block] |
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The entire disclosure of real estate investments and associated accumulated depreciation for entities with a significant portion of their business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
Basis of Presentation (Details) $ in Millions |
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
| |
| Ground Lease Agreement Initial Term | 5 |
| Subject to Capital Lease with Sprint, TMO, or AT&T [Member] | |
| Tower count as a percentage of total towers | 54.00% |
| Leased or Operated Under Sprint Agreement [Member] | |
| Ground Lease Agreement Initial Term | 32 |
| Purchase Option Price | $ 2,300 |
| Tower count as a percentage of total towers | 16.00% |
| Leased or Operated Under T-Mobile Agreement [Member] | |
| Ground Lease Agreement Initial Term | 28 |
| Tower count as a percentage of total towers | 15.00% |
| T-Mobile [Member] | |
| Purchase Option Price | $ 2,000 |
| AT&T lease or sublease in accordance with TMO Agreement [Member] | |
| Purchase Option Price | $ 405 |
| Tower count as a percentage of total towers | 1.00% |
| AT&T Prior to 2025 in accordance with TMO agreement [Member] | |
| Purchase Option Price | $ 10 |
| CCAL [Member] | |
| Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent | 77.60% |
| AT&T [Member] | |
| Ground Lease Agreement Initial Term | 28 |
| Purchase Option Price | $ 4,200 |
| Tower count as a percentage of total towers | 23.00% |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition This disclosure represents the term of the Company’s ground lease agreements No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition This element relates to the total future purchase option price. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Tower count as a percentage of total towers No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The parent entity's interest in net assets of the subsidiary, expressed as a percentage. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Details) $ in Thousands, shares in Millions |
12 Months Ended | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
years
shares
|
Dec. 31, 2014
USD ($)
shares
|
Dec. 31, 2013
USD ($)
|
||||
| Net cash provided by (used from) operating activities | $ 3,974 | $ 6,148 | $ (1,637) | |||
| Net cash provided by (used from) investing activities | (3,752) | (44) | 8,067 | |||
| Net cash provided by (used from) financing activities | 16,458 | 30,011 | 385,982 | [1] | ||
| Capitalized Labor Costs | $ 36,700 | 24,200 | 17,600 | |||
| Useful life of site rental contracts and customer relationships (years) | 20 years | |||||
| Revenue recognition, non-cancelable lease term, minimum (years) | years | 5 | |||||
| Revenue recognition, non-cancelable lease term, maximum (years) | years | 15 | |||||
| Portion of company site rental costs that are ground lease expenses | 0.6667 | |||||
| Ground Lease Agreement Initial Term | 5 | |||||
| Percentage of tax position that is likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement | 50.00% | |||||
| Asset write-down charges | $ 33,468 | 14,246 | 13,595 | |||
| Work in Process | 55,300 | 60,700 | ||||
| Deferred Finance Costs, Net | $ 107,700 | |||||
| Wireless Infrastructure [Member] | ||||||
| Estimated useful life, maximum, in years | 20 years | |||||
| Wireless Infrastructure [Member] | Maximum [Member] | ||||||
| Estimated useful life, maximum, in years | 20 years | |||||
| Restricted Cash Held By Trustee [Member] [Member] | ||||||
| Net cash provided by (used from) financing activities | 316,600 | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | ||||||
| Asset write-down charges | $ 27,000 | $ 9,300 | $ 8,900 | |||
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock | ||||||
| Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares) | shares | 11.4 | 12.5 | ||||
| ||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Internal labor costs capitalized during the current period No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition This disclosure represents the term of the Company’s ground lease agreements No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The net cash inflow or outflow for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as financing activities. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The net cash inflow or outflow for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as investing activities. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The threshold percentage of an uncertain tax position at which the Company will recognize a tax position. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Portion of Company site rental costs That are related to ground lease expenses No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Revenue Recognition Non Cancelable Lease Term, Range (Maximum) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Revenue Recognition Non-cancelable Lease Term, Range (Minimum) No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Securities (including those issuable pursuant to contingent stock agreements) that could potentially dilute basic earnings per share (EPS) or earnings per unit (EPU) in the future that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS or EPU because to do so would increase EPS or EPU amounts or decrease loss per share or unit amounts for the period presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of write-down of assets recognized in the income statement. Includes, but is not limited to, losses from tangible assets, intangible assets and goodwill. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition For an unclassified balance sheet, the carrying amount (net of accumulated amortization) as of the balance sheet date of capitalized costs associated with the issuance of debt instruments (for example, legal, accounting, underwriting, printing, and registration costs) that will be charged against earnings over the life of the debt instruments to which such costs pertain. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The current amount of expenditures for a real estate project that has not yet been completed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Useful life of finite-lived intangible assets, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The net cash inflow or outflow for the increase (decrease) associated with funds that are not available for withdrawal or use (such as funds held in escrow) and are associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. This may include cash restricted for regulatory purposes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Useful life of long lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Examples include, but not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Interest Expense and Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] | |||
| Interest expense on debt obligations | $ 490,002 | $ 492,437 | $ 490,385 |
| Amortization of deferred financing costs | 22,077 | 22,190 | 25,120 |
| Amortization of discounts on long-term debt | (1,029) | (3,628) | 8,541 |
| Amortization of interest rate swaps | 18,725 | 63,148 | 64,928 |
| Interest Costs Capitalized | (4,805) | (2,985) | (1,832) |
| Other, net of capitalized interest | 2,158 | 2,129 | 2,488 |
| Total | $ 527,128 | $ 573,291 | $ 589,630 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cost of borrowed funds and the amortization of interest rate swaps accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Summary of Significant Accounting Policies [Abstract] No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of noncash expense included in interest expense to amortize debt discount and premium associated with the related debt instruments. Excludes amortization of financing costs. Alternate captions include noncash interest expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of noncash expense included in interest expense to issue debt and obtain financing associated with the related debt instruments. Alternate captions include noncash interest expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of interest capitalized during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of the cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest expense. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of the cost of borrowed funds accounted for as interest expense for debt. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Interest expense on all other items not previously classified. For example, includes dividends associated with redeemable preferred stock of a subsidiary that is treated as a liability in the parent's consolidated balance sheet. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Per Share Information) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Sep. 30, 2015 |
Jun. 30, 2015 |
Mar. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Sep. 30, 2014 |
Jun. 30, 2014 |
Mar. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Attributable to Parent | $ 525,286 | $ 346,314 | $ 60,001 | ||||||||
| Dividends on preferred stock | (43,988) | (43,988) | (11,363) | ||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders | 1,477,004 | 346,525 | 78,748 | ||||||||
| Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax and Gain (Loss) on Disposal | 999,049 | 52,460 | 33,900 | ||||||||
| Less: Net income (loss) attributable to the noncontrolling interest | $ 3,343 | $ 8,261 | $ 3,790 | ||||||||
| Weighted-average common shares outstanding: | |||||||||||
| Basic weighted-average number of common stock outstanding | 333,002 | 332,302 | 298,083 | ||||||||
| Diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding | 334,062 | 333,265 | 299,293 | ||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share: | |||||||||||
| Basic (in dollars per share) | $ 0.39 | $ 0.28 | $ 3.43 | $ 0.34 | $ 0.41 | $ 0.29 | $ 0.07 | $ 0.27 | $ 4.44 | $ 1.04 | $ 0.26 |
| Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ 0.39 | $ 0.28 | $ 3.42 | $ 0.34 | $ 0.41 | $ 0.29 | $ 0.07 | $ 0.27 | $ 4.42 | $ 1.04 | $ 0.26 |
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock | |||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share: | |||||||||||
| Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares) | 11,400 | 12,500 | |||||||||
| Stock Options and Restricted Stock Awards [Member] | |||||||||||
| Weighted-average common shares outstanding: | |||||||||||
| Effect of assumed dilution from potential common shares relating to stock options and restricted stock awards | 1,060 | 963 | 1,210 | ||||||||
| Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member] | |||||||||||
| Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders | $ 995,706 | $ 44,199 | $ 30,110 | ||||||||
| Discontinued Operations [Member] | |||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share: | |||||||||||
| Basic (in dollars per share) | $ 2.99 | $ 0.13 | $ 0.10 | ||||||||
| Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ 2.98 | $ 0.13 | $ 0.10 | ||||||||
| Continuing Operations [Member] | |||||||||||
| Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders | $ 481,298 | $ 302,326 | $ 48,638 | ||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share: | |||||||||||
| Basic (in dollars per share) | $ 1.45 | $ 0.91 | $ 0.16 | ||||||||
| Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ 1.44 | $ 0.91 | $ 0.16 | ||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items] No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of income (loss) from a disposal group, net of income tax and related net gain (loss) on discontinued operations. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Securities (including those issuable pursuant to contingent stock agreements) that could potentially dilute basic earnings per share (EPS) or earnings per unit (EPU) in the future that were not included in the computation of diluted EPS or EPU because to do so would increase EPS or EPU amounts or decrease loss per share or unit amounts for the period presented. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to the parent. Also defined as revenue less expenses and taxes from ongoing operations before extraordinary items but after deduction of those portions of income or loss from continuing operations that are allocable to noncontrolling interests. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of Net Income (Loss) attributable to noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Net income after adjustments for dividends on preferred stock (declared in the period) and/or cumulative preferred stock (accumulated for the period). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The aggregate value of preferred stock dividends and other adjustments necessary to derive net income apportioned to common stockholders. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The sum of dilutive potential common shares or units used in the calculation of the diluted per-share or per-unit computation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The average number of shares or units issued and outstanding that are used in calculating diluted EPS or earnings per unit (EPU), determined based on the timing of issuance of shares or units in the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Number of [basic] shares or units, after adjustment for contingently issuable shares or units and other shares or units not deemed outstanding, determined by relating the portion of time within a reporting period that common shares or units have been outstanding to the total time in that period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Discontinued Operations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
May. 28, 2015 |
||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Proceeds from Divestiture of Businesses, Net of Cash Divested | $ 1,100,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Current | $ 61,289 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Property, Plant and Equipment, Current | 165,528 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Assets, Noncurrent | 185,966 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Assets | 0 | 412,783 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities, Current | 94,297 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Liabilities, Noncurrent | 33,196 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Liabilities | 0 | 127,493 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Revenue | [2] | 65,293 | [1] | 151,128 | [1] | $ 156,633 | |||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Costs of Goods Sold | [2],[3] | 17,498 | [1] | 43,860 | [1] | 55,779 | |||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Depreciation and Amortization | [2] | 10,168 | [1] | 27,283 | [1] | 32,873 | |||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Other Expense | [2] | 10,481 | [1] | 26,921 | [1] | 26,453 | |||||||||||||||||
| Discontinued Operation, Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax | [2] | 27,146 | [1] | 53,064 | [1] | 41,528 | |||||||||||||||||
| Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operation During Phase-out Period | (7,456) | (604) | (7,628) | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent | [2],[4] | 19,690 | [1] | 52,460 | [1] | 33,900 | |||||||||||||||||
| Cash Proceeds from Divestiture of Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries | [5] | 1,139,369 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Installment payment receivable for sale of subsidiary | 117,384 | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total Proceeds From Sale of Subsidiary | 1,256,753 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets and liabilities related to discontinued operations | [6],[7] | 258,575 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Transaction fees and expense related to disposal of discontinued operations | 23,059 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Foreign Currency Translation Gains (Losses) | [8] | (25,678) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation, before Income Tax | 1,000,797 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Discontinued Operation, Tax Effect of Gain (Loss) from Disposal of Discontinued Operation | (21,438) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Discontinued Operation, Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Discontinued Operation, Net of Tax | $ 979,359 | $ 0 | $ 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| CCAL [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent | 77.60% | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Discontinued Operations [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income (Loss) from Discontinued Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest | $ 23,500 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Disposal Group, Including Discontinued Operation, Cash and Cash Equivalents | $ 11,100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Receivable [Domain] | inclusive of foreign currency swap [Domain] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Installment payment receivable for sale of subsidiary | $ 124,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Receivable [Domain] | exclusive of foreign currency swap [Domain] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Installment payment receivable for sale of subsidiary | [5] | $ 117,384 | |||||||||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Installment payment receivable for sale of subsidiary No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Net assets and liabilities attributable to disposal group disposed of, net of the disposition of noncontrolling interest related to the disposal group. Adjustment from proceeds from sale to the net gain (loss) from disposal of discontinued operations. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total proceeds for sale of subsidiary in accordance with GAAP recognized during the current period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Adjustment from proceeds from sale to the net gain (loss) from disposal of discontinued operation for transaction fees and expense related to disposal of discontinued operations. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount classified as assets attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before tax of gain (loss) not previously recognized resulting from the disposal of a discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of gain (loss) not previously recognized resulting from the disposal of a discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before tax of income (loss) from a discontinued operation. Includes, but is not limited to, the income (loss) from operations during the phase-out period, gain (loss) on disposal, gain (loss) for reversal of write-down (write-down) to fair value, less cost to sell, and adjustments to a prior period gain (loss) on disposal. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of tax expense (benefit) attributable to income (loss) from operations classified as a discontinued operation. Excludes tax expense (benefit) for gain (loss) on disposal and for provision for gain (loss) until disposal. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of tax expense (benefit) on gain (loss) not previously recognized resulting from the disposal of a discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount classified as cash and cash equivalents attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of costs of goods sold attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of depreciation and amortization expense attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of foreign currency translation gain (loss) in the disposal group, including discontinued operation, recognized in the statement of income as a result of the sale or complete or substantially complete liquidation of an investment in a foreign entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount classified as other assets attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount classified as other liabilities attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of other expense attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount classified as other assets attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of after one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount classified as other liabilities attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of beyond one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount classified as property, plant and equipment attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of, expected to be disposed of within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of revenue attributable to disposal group, including, but not limited to, discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of income (loss) from a discontinued operation attributable to the noncontrolling interest. Includes, but is not limited to, the income (loss) from operations during the phase-out period, gain (loss) on disposal, gain (loss) for reversal of write-down (write-down) to fair value, less cost to sell, and adjustments to a prior period gain (loss) on disposal. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after tax of income (loss) from a discontinued operation attributable to the parent. Includes, but is not limited to, the income (loss) from operations during the phase-out period, gain (loss) on disposal, gain (loss) for reversal of write-down (write-down) to fair value, less cost to sell, and adjustments to a prior period gain (loss) on disposal. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount classified as liabilities attributable to disposal group held for sale or disposed of. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The parent entity's interest in net assets of the subsidiary, expressed as a percentage. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition This element represents the cash inflow during the period from the sale of a component of the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash inflow associated with the deconsolidation of a previously consolidated subsidiary or the sale of investment in consolidated subsidiaries (generally greater than 50 percent). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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Acquisitions (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
|
Dec. 31, 2014
USD ($)
|
Dec. 31, 2013
USD ($)
$ / shares
|
||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net revenues | [1] | $ 3,420,736 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Income (loss) before income taxes | [2],[3] | 242,617 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Benefit (provision) for income taxes | [3],[4] | (178,663) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) | [2],[3] | $ 63,954 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Basic net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share | $ / shares | $ 0.05 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Diluted net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share | $ / shares | $ 0.05 | |||||||||||||||||||
| land interests acquired | 1,200 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual | $ 41,400 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Sunesys [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Consideration transferred | $ 1,000,000 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Fiber Miles | 10,000 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Percentage of FIber Miles | 60.00% | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets | $ 15,417 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment | 444,864 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount | [5] | 325,696 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill | 259,833 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities | (20,470) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities | (37,375) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net | [6] | $ 987,965 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Land Interests Acquired [Domain] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Consideration transferred | $ 354,000 | |||||||||||||||||||
| AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Tower count as a percentage of total towers | 23.00% | |||||||||||||||||||
| Consideration transferred | $ 4,827,000 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase price allocation | [7] | $ 4,826,599 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Pro forma revenue adjustments [Member] | AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business acquisition, pro forma adjustment | 211,100 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business acquisition, pro forma adjustment | $ 218,300 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] | AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase price allocation | [8] | (221,045) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Other Current Liabilities [Member] | AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase price allocation | (10,677) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other Assets [Member] | AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase price allocation | 67,063 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other Intangible Assets [Member] | AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase price allocation | 1,175,217 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Goodwill [Member] | AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase price allocation | 1,902,777 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Member] | AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase price allocation | 1,891,721 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Prepaid Expenses and Other Current Assets [Member] | AT&T [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Business Acquisition [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Purchase price allocation | $ 21,543 | |||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Pro forma adjustment in conjunction with the pro forma financial statements resulting from a business combination. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to a certain line item. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Fiber Miles No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition land interests acquired No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Percentage of FIber Miles No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Pro forma benefit (provision) for income taxes No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Pro forma Income (loss) before income taxes No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Tower count as a percentage of total towers No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The pro forma basic net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The pro forma diluted net income per share for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of goodwill arising from a business combination that is expected to be deductible for tax purposes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The pro forma net Income or Loss for the period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of a period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The pro forma revenue for a period as if the business combination or combinations had been completed at the beginning of the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of consideration transferred, consisting of acquisition-date fair value of assets transferred by the acquirer, liabilities incurred by the acquirer, and equity interest issued by the acquirer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition This element represents the amount of revenue of the acquiree since the acquisition date included in the consolidated income statement for the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of assets that are expected to be realized or consumed within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, acquired at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of liabilities due within one year or within the normal operating cycle, if longer, assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of intangible assets, excluding goodwill, acquired at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of liabilities due after one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer, assumed at the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of property, plant, and equipment recognized as of the acquisition date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount recognized for assets, including goodwill, in excess of (less than) the aggregate liabilities assumed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Property and Equipment (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Gross property and equipment | $ 15,378,932 | $ 14,035,179 | |||
| Less: accumulated depreciation | (5,798,875) | (5,052,396) | |||
| Total property and equipment, net | 9,580,057 | 8,982,783 | |||
| Depreciation expense | 774,900 | 733,600 | $ 536,200 | ||
| Capital Leased Assets, Gross | 4,400,000 | ||||
| Accumulated Depreciation on Capital Lease Assets | 1,200,000 | ||||
| Land owned in fee and perpetual easements [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Gross property and equipment | [1] | 1,617,919 | 1,491,640 | ||
| Buildings [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Gross property and equipment | $ 86,760 | 58,491 | |||
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 40 years | ||||
| Wireless Infrastructure [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Gross property and equipment | $ 12,856,115 | 11,782,715 | |||
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 20 years | ||||
| Information technology assets and other [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Gross property and equipment | $ 239,332 | 199,834 | |||
| Construction in Process [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Gross property and equipment | $ 578,806 | $ 502,499 | |||
| Minimum [Member] | Wireless Infrastructure [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 1 year | ||||
| Minimum [Member] | Information technology assets and other [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 2 years | ||||
| Maximum [Member] | Wireless Infrastructure [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 20 years | ||||
| Maximum [Member] | Information technology assets and other [Member] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] | |||||
| Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life | 7 years | ||||
| |||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Accumulated Depreciation on Capital Lease Assets No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization for physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before accumulated depreciation of leased physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of expense recognized in the current period that reflects the allocation of the cost of tangible assets over the assets' useful lives. Includes production and non-production related depreciation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount after accumulated depreciation, depletion and amortization of physical assets used in the normal conduct of business to produce goods and services and not intended for resale. Examples include, but are not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, and furniture and fixtures. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Useful life of long lived, physical assets used in the normal conduct of business and not intended for resale, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Examples include, but not limited to, land, buildings, machinery and equipment, office equipment, furniture and fixtures, and computer equipment. No definition available.
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Goodwill and Intangible Assets (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Goodwill Period Start | $ 5,196,485 | $ 4,902,950 | |||
| Goodwill, Translation Adjustments | (69) | ||||
| Goodwill Period End | 5,513,551 | 5,196,485 | $ 4,902,950 | ||
| Finite-lived intangible assets, gross | 5,491,383 | 5,123,713 | |||
| Accumulated amortization of intangible assets | (1,711,468) | (1,442,162) | |||
| Finite-lived intangible assets, net | 3,779,915 | 3,681,551 | |||
| 2016 | 272,067 | ||||
| 2017 | 271,503 | ||||
| 2018 | 271,054 | ||||
| 2019 | 270,618 | ||||
| 2020 | 270,188 | ||||
| Site Rental Contracts and Customer Relationships [Member] | |||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Finite-lived intangible assets, gross | 5,009,241 | 4,627,429 | |||
| Accumulated amortization of intangible assets | (1,588,061) | (1,340,285) | |||
| Finite-lived intangible assets, net | 3,421,180 | 3,287,144 | |||
| Other Intangible Assets [Member] | |||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Finite-lived intangible assets, gross | 482,142 | 496,284 | |||
| Accumulated amortization of intangible assets | (123,407) | (101,877) | |||
| Finite-lived intangible assets, net | 358,735 | 394,407 | |||
| AT&T [Member] | |||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Adjustments to AT&T Purchase Price Allocation | 134,242 | ||||
| Other Acquired Goodwill [Domain] | |||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Additions due to acquisitions | 41,542 | 159,362 | |||
| Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments | (50,172) | ||||
| Sunesys [Member] | |||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Additions due to acquisitions | [1] | 325,696 | |||
| Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion [Member] | |||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Amortization expense | 251,443 | 242,967 | 197,906 | ||
| Site Rental Costs of Operations [Member] | |||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Amortization expense | 20,420 | 22,105 | 10,197 | ||
| Total Amortization Expense [Member] | |||||
| Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] | |||||
| Amortization expense | $ 271,863 | $ 265,072 | $ 208,103 | ||
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- Definition The aggregate expense charged against earnings to allocate the cost of intangible assets (nonphysical assets not used in production) in a systematic and rational manner to the periods expected to benefit from such assets. As a noncash expense, this element is added back to net income when calculating cash provided by or used in operations using the indirect method. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Accumulated amount of amortization of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during the fourth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of amortization expense for assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life expected to be recognized during the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount before amortization of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount after amortization of assets, excluding financial assets and goodwill, lacking physical substance with a finite life. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount after accumulated impairment loss of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of increase in asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized resulting from a business combination. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) from adjustments after acquisition date under purchase accounting of an asset representing the future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) from foreign currency translation adjustments of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) from foreign currency translation adjustments and purchase accounting adjustments of an asset representing future economic benefits arising from other assets acquired in a business combination that are not individually identified and separately recognized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Other Liabilities (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Other Liabilities, non-current | $ 1,948,636 | $ 1,666,391 | |
| Amortization of Below Market Lease | 32,800 | 29,500 | $ 29,600 |
| Accrued Payroll and Other Compensation | 78,700 | 61,900 | |
| Above Market Leases [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Amortization of Above Market Leases | 22,500 | 24,200 | $ 7,200 |
| Amortization expense, 2015 [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of above-market leases by year | 21,302 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2016 [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of above-market leases by year | 20,236 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2017 [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of above-market leases by year | 19,458 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2018 [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of above-market leases by year | 18,645 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2019 [Member] [Domain] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of above-market leases by year | 17,569 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2015 [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year | 35,359 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2016 [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year | 34,071 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2017 [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year | 31,028 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2018 [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year | 27,833 | ||
| Amortization expense, 2019 [Member] [Domain] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year | 26,116 | ||
| customer prepaid rent [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Other Liabilities, non-current | 864,269 | 604,825 | |
| deferred ground lease payable [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Other Liabilities, non-current | 467,411 | 406,732 | |
| Above Market Leases [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Other Liabilities, non-current | 242,893 | 272,694 | |
| deferred credits [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Other Liabilities, non-current | 239,527 | 222,460 | |
| asset retirement obligations [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Other Liabilities, non-current | 132,110 | 119,463 | |
| Deferred Tax Liability, noncurrent [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Other Liabilities, non-current | 2,059 | 39,889 | |
| Other Liabilities [Member] | |||
| Other Liabilities [Line Items] | |||
| Other Liabilities, non-current | $ 367 | $ 328 | |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Accrued Payroll and Other Compensation No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amortization expense for the current year related to the Company’s above-market leases recorded in site rental costs of operations No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Expected amortization expense related to the Company’s above-market leases recorded in site rental costs of operations No definition available.
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- Definition Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year to site rental revenues. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of amortization of acquired leases acquired as part of a real property acquisition at below market lease rate with a finite life. No definition available.
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- Definition Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Debt and Other Obligations (Indebtedness) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Sep. 30, 2015 |
Jun. 30, 2015 |
Mar. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Sep. 30, 2014 |
Jun. 30, 2014 |
Mar. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 12,249,238 | $ 11,920,861 | $ 12,249,238 | $ 11,920,861 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Less: current maturities and short-term debt and other current obligations | 106,219 | 113,335 | 106,219 | 113,335 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Non-current portion of long-term debt and other long-term obligations | 12,143,019 | 11,807,526 | 12,143,019 | 11,807,526 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Gross | 12,252,716 | 12,252,716 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 1,069,361 | 800,000 | $ 726,992 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | 1,069,337 | [1] | 836,899 | [1] | 762,970 | [2] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | 0 | $ 0 | $ (4,181) | $ 24 | 0 | $ 0 | $ (44,629) | $ 0 | (4,157) | [3] | (44,629) | [4] | (37,127) | [5] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| WCP Securitized Notes [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 252,830 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [6] | 252,830 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [3] | 2,105 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate High Yield Bonds 7Point125 Percent Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 2,394 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [6] | 2,370 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [3] | 24 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 250,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [6] | 250,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [3] | $ (159) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2012 Credit Facility [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage | 0.25% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Bank Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 4,001,390 | 4,176,447 | $ 4,001,390 | 4,176,447 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 4,041,592 | 3,573,208 | 4,041,592 | 3,573,208 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| High Yield Bonds [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 3,996,491 | 3,996,031 | $ 3,996,491 | 3,996,031 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CCOC [Member] | Minimum [Member] | Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche B [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basis spread on variable rate | 2.25% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt instrument credit spread LIBOR rate minimum | 0.75% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| CCOC [Member] | Maximum [Member] | Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche B [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basis spread on variable rate | 2.50% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Term Loans Tranche B - Due 2019 [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 564,100 | $ 564,100 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes Second Tranche [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 350,000 | $ 350,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Interest rate, increase (decrease) | 5.00% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate - High Yield Bonds, 9% Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 314,170 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [2] | 332,045 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5] | (17,894) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Incremental Term Loan B [Member] | CCOC [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 800,000 | $ 800,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Incremental Term Loan B2 [Member] [Member] | CCOC [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 500,000 | 500,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Incremental Term Loan A2 [Member] | CCOC [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 200,000 | 200,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes Second Tranche [Member] | 2019 [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Gross | 71,600 | 71,600 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes Second Tranche [Member] | 2029 [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Long-term Debt, Gross | 70,000 | $ 70,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| WCP Securitized Notes [Member] | Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Nov. 01, 2010 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | Nov. 2040 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 0 | 262,386 | $ 0 | 262,386 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Percentage of debt instrument interest rate stated | [7] | N/A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Variable Rate Revolver [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Availability on revolver | 1,200,000 | $ 1,200,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2012 Revolver [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5] | (241) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2012 Revolver [Member] | Bank Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Jan. 01, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | Jan. 2019 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,125,000 | [8] | 695,000 | $ 1,125,000 | [8] | 695,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7],[9] | 2.20% | 2.20% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche A [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 87,489 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [2] | 87,489 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5] | (399) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche A [Member] | Bank Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Jan. 01, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | Jan. 2019 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 629,375 | 645,938 | $ 629,375 | 645,938 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7],[9] | 2.20% | 2.20% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche B [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | $ 564,137 | 30,941 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | 564,137 | [6] | 30,941 | [2] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | $ (6,127) | [3] | (490) | [5] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche B [Member] | Bank Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Jan. 01, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | Jan. 2021 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 2,247,015 | 2,835,509 | $ 2,247,015 | 2,835,509 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7],[10] | 3.00% | 3.00% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 300,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [1] | 302,990 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [4] | (3,740) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Jan. 01, 2010 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | [11] | 2037-2040 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,600,000 | 1,600,000 | $ 1,600,000 | 1,600,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7],[11] | 6.00% | 6.00% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Aug. 01, 2010 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | [11] | 2037-2040 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,300,000 | 1,550,000 | $ 1,300,000 | 1,550,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7],[11] | 4.70% | 4.70% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt May 2015 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] [Domain] | Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | May 01, 2015 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | [11] | 2042-2045 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,000,000 | 0 | $ 1,000,000 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7],[11] | 3.50% | 3.50% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes [Member] | Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Jul. 01, 2009 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | [12] | 2019/2029 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 141,592 | 160,822 | $ 141,592 | 160,822 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7] | 7.60% | 7.60% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate High Yield Bonds 7Point125 Percent Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 500,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [1] | 533,909 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [4] | (40,889) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Five and One Fourth Senior Notes [Member] | High Yield Bonds [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Oct. 01, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | Jan. 2023 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,649,969 | 1,649,969 | $ 1,649,969 | 1,649,969 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7] | 5.30% | 5.30% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 30 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [2] | 30 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5] | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2012 Secured Notes [Member] | High Yield Bonds [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Dec. 01, 2012 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | [13] | 2017/2023 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 | $ 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7] | 3.40% | 3.40% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2012 Secured Notes [Member] | High Yield Bonds [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,000,000 | $ 1,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Capital Lease Obligations and Other [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original Debt Issuance Date | Various | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | [14] | Various | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 209,765 | 175,175 | $ 209,765 | 175,175 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Percentage of debt instrument interest rate stated | [7],[14] | Various | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum | 10.00% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2012 secured notes tranche A [Member] | High Yield Bonds [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 500,000 | $ 500,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate - High Yield Bonds, 7.75% Secured Notes [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | [15] | 294,362 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Repayments of Other Long-term Debt | [2],[15] | 312,465 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5],[15] | $ (18,103) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate - 4.875% Senior Notes [Member] | High Yield Bonds [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Original issue date | Apr. 01, 2014 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Contractual maturity date | Apr. 2022 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 846,062 | $ 846,062 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 4.875% Senior Notes [Member] | High Yield Bonds [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 846,522 | $ 846,522 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [7] | 4.90% | 4.90% | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 850,000 | $ 850,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes Third Tranche [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 1,300,000 | 1,300,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes Second Tranche [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 300,000 | 300,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes Third Tranche [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 1,000,000 | 1,000,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.222% due 2042 [Member] | Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 300,000 | 300,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.663% due 2045 [Member] | Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 700,000 | $ 700,000 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The minimum credit spread incremental to the LIBOR rate for purposes of determining the interest rate for a debt instrument. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Date range when the debt instrument is schedule to be fully repaid, which may be presented in a variety of ways (year, month and year, day, month, and year, quarter, etc). No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Date of original debt issuance. No definition available.
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- Definition Interest rate stated in the contractual debt agreements. No definition available.
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- Definition Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all debt, including all short-term borrowings, long-term debt, and capital lease obligations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of short-term debt and current maturity of long-term debt and capital lease obligations due within one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Percentage points added to the reference rate to compute the variable rate on the debt instrument. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of long-term debt before deduction of unamortized discount or premium. Includes, but is not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, with initial maturities beyond one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Face (par) amount of debt instrument at time of issuance. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Incremental percentage increase (decrease) in the stated rate on a debt instrument. No definition available.
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- Definition Contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Maximum contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Date the debt instrument was issued, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of unused borrowing capacity under the long-term financing arrangement that is available to the entity as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Gross amount of debt extinguished. No definition available.
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- Definition Difference between the fair value of payments made and the carrying amount of debt which is extinguished prior to maturity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The fee, expressed as a percentage of the line of credit facility, for the line of credit facility regardless of whether the facility has been used. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of long-term debt and capital lease obligation due after one year or beyond the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash outflow attributable to repayments of borrowings not otherwise defined in the taxonomy (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Debt and Other Obligations (Textuals) (Details) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
|
Dec. 31, 2014
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|
Dec. 31, 2013
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|
||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 12,249,238 | $ 11,920,861 | ||||||
| Borrowings under revolving credit facility | 1,790,000 | 1,019,000 | $ 976,032 | |||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 1,069,361 | 800,000 | $ 726,992 | |||||
| Principal balance outstanding on debt instruments | 12,252,716 | |||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ 178,810 | 151,312 | ||||||
| Debt Instrument, Covenant Description | 7.0 to 1.0 | |||||||
| Variable Rate Revolver [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Availability on revolver | $ 1,200,000 | |||||||
| Variable Rate Revolver 2012 [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum | 1.50% | |||||||
| Effective Percentage Rate Range, Maximum | 2.25% | |||||||
| Term Loans Tranche B - Due 2019 [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 564,100 | |||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Interest rate, increase (decrease) | 5.00% | |||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes First Tranche [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 300,000 | |||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes Second Tranche [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 350,000 | |||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes Third Tranche [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 1,300,000 | |||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes Second Tranche [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 300,000 | |||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes Third Tranche [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 1,000,000 | |||||||
| Fixed Rate High Yield Bonds 7Point125 Percent Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Extinguishment of Debt, Amount | 500,000 | |||||||
| Capital Lease Obligations and Other [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 209,765 | $ 175,175 | ||||||
| Stated Percentage Rate Range, Maximum | 10.00% | |||||||
| Contractual maturity date, start | 1 year | |||||||
| Contractual maturity date, end | 25 years | |||||||
| High Yield Bonds - Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Redemption pricing percentage of principal amount | 100.00% | |||||||
| CCOC [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 800,000 | |||||||
| CCOC [Member] | Incremental Term Loan B2 [Member] [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 500,000 | |||||||
| CCOC [Member] | Incremental Term Loan A2 [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 200,000 | |||||||
| Securitized Debt [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 4,041,592 | $ 3,573,208 | ||||||
| Securitized Debt [Member] | 2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.222% due 2042 [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 300,000 | |||||||
| Securitized Debt [Member] | WCP Securitized Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 0 | 262,386 | ||||||
| Securitized Debt [Member] | 2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.663% due 2045 [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 700,000 | |||||||
| Securitized Debt [Member] | Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,300,000 | 1,550,000 | ||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [1],[2] | 4.70% | ||||||
| 2012 secured notes tranche A [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 500,000 | |||||||
| 2012 Credit Facility [Member] | CCOC [Member] | Senior Secured Term Loan B [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 1,600,000 | |||||||
| 2012 Credit Facility [Member] | CCOC [Member] | Variable Rate Revolver 2012 [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | 2,300,000 | |||||||
| High Yield Bonds [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 3,996,491 | 3,996,031 | ||||||
| High Yield Bonds [Member] | Fixed Rate High Yield Bonds 7Point125 Percent Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Repayments of Debt | 500,000 | |||||||
| High Yield Bonds [Member] | 4.875% Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 846,522 | |||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 850,000 | |||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [2] | 4.90% | ||||||
| Issuance of debt obligation [Member] | 4.875% Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Proceeds from Issuance of Debt | $ 839,000 | |||||||
| 2012 secured notes tranche B [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | $ 1,000,000 | |||||||
| Maximum [Member] | High Yield Bonds - Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt to Adjusted Cash Flow Ratio | 1.0 | |||||||
| Minimum [Member] | High Yield Bonds - Senior Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt to Adjusted Cash Flow Ratio | 7.0 | |||||||
| Amount redeemed after tender [Member] | Fixed Rate - High Yield Bonds, 7.75% Secured Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Repayments of Debt | $ 294,400 | |||||||
| Amount validly tendered [Member] | Fixed Rate - High Yield Bonds, 7.75% Secured Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Tender Offer Amount | $ 670,600 | |||||||
| August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes ARD [Domain] | Securitized Debt [Member] | Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Total debt and other obligations | 250,000 | |||||||
| Sunesys [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Borrowings under revolving credit facility | 835,000 | |||||||
| Collateral Pledged [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument, PPE Collaterized Amount | 1,300,000 | |||||||
| Collateral Pledged [Member] | 2012 Revolver [Member] | ||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | ||||||||
| Cash and equivalents | $ 80,000 | |||||||
| ||||||||
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- Definition The percentage of the principal amount that may be redeemed. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Excludes cash and cash equivalents within disposal group and discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of long-term debt before deduction of unamortized discount or premium. Includes, but is not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, with initial maturities beyond one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of assets pledged to secure a debt instrument. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Description of minimum financial levels (for example, tangible net worth and working capital) and achievement of certain financial ratios (for example, working capital ratio and debt service coverage ratio), and adherence to certain clauses which generally require or restrict certain actions (for example, entering into a debt arrangement with equal or greater seniority, and selling or discontinuing a certain business segment or material subsidiary) to be in compliance with the covenant clauses of the debt agreement. May also include a discussion of the adverse consequences that would result if the entity violates or fails to satisfy the covenants. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Incremental percentage increase (decrease) in the stated rate on a debt instrument. No definition available.
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- Definition Contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Minimum contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of unused borrowing capacity under the long-term financing arrangement that is available to the entity as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Gross amount of debt extinguished. No definition available.
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- Definition Maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The cash inflow during the period from additional borrowings in aggregate debt. Includes proceeds from short-term and long-term debt. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of cash inflow from contractual arrangement with the lender, including but not limited to, letter of credit, standby letter of credit and revolving credit arrangements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Debt and Other Obligations (Scheduled Contractual Maturities) (Details) $ in Thousands |
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
|
|---|---|
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |
| 2016 | $ 107,075 |
| 2017 | 603,316 |
| 2018 | 99,855 |
| 2019 | 1,713,463 |
| 2020 | 47,464 |
| Thereafter | 9,681,543 |
| Total Cash Obligations | 12,252,716 |
| Unamortized Discounts | (3,478) |
| Total Debt and Other Obligations Outstanding | $ 12,249,238 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of long-term debt before deduction of unamortized discount or premium. Includes, but is not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, commercial loans, mortgage loans, convertible debt, subordinated debt and other types of debt, with initial maturities beyond one year or the normal operating cycle, if longer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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- Definition The amount of debt discount that was originally recognized at the issuance of the instrument that has yet to be amortized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Carrying amount of long-term debt, net of unamortized discount or premium, including current and noncurrent amounts. Includes, but not limited to, notes payable, bonds payable, debentures, mortgage loans and commercial paper. Excludes capital lease obligations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of long-term debt payable, sinking fund requirements, and other securities issued that are redeemable by holder at fixed or determinable prices and dates maturing after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of long-term debt payable, sinking fund requirements, and other securities issued that are redeemable by holder at fixed or determinable prices and dates maturing in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of long-term debt payable, sinking fund requirements, and other securities issued that are redeemable by holder at fixed or determinable prices and dates maturing in the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of long-term debt payable, sinking fund requirements, and other securities issued that are redeemable by holder at fixed or determinable prices and dates maturing in the fourth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of long-term debt payable, sinking fund requirements, and other securities issued that are redeemable by holder at fixed or determinable prices and dates maturing in the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of long-term debt payable, sinking fund requirements, and other securities issued that are redeemable by holder at fixed or determinable prices and dates maturing in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Debt and Other Obligations (Debt Purchases and Repayments) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Sep. 30, 2015 |
Jun. 30, 2015 |
Mar. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Sep. 30, 2014 |
Jun. 30, 2014 |
Mar. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | $ (1,069,361) | $ (800,000) | $ (726,992) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | 1,069,337 | [1] | 836,899 | [1] | 762,970 | [2] | |||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ (4,181) | $ 24 | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ (44,629) | $ 0 | (4,157) | [3] | (44,629) | [4] | (37,127) | [5] | |||||||||||||||
| Write-off of deferred financing costs and discounts | 4,200 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate - High Yield Bonds, 9% Senior Notes [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (314,170) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [2] | 332,045 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5] | (17,894) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate - High Yield Bonds, 7.75% Secured Notes [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | [6] | (294,362) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [2],[6] | 312,465 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5],[6] | (18,103) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate High Yield Bonds 7Point125 Percent Senior Notes [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (500,000) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [1] | 533,909 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [4] | (40,889) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (300,000) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [1] | 302,990 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [4] | $ (3,740) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| 2012 Revolver [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5] | (241) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche A [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (87,489) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [2] | 87,489 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5] | (399) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche B [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (564,137) | (30,941) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | 564,137 | [7] | 30,941 | [2] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | (6,127) | [3] | (490) | [5] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| WCP Securitized Notes [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (252,830) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [7] | 252,830 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [3] | 2,105 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| High Yield Bonds [Member] | Five and One Fourth Senior Notes [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (30) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [2] | 30 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [5] | $ 0 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (250,000) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [7] | 250,000 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [3] | (159) | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Fixed Rate High Yield Bonds 7Point125 Percent Senior Notes [Member] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Debt Instrument [Line Items] | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Principal Amount | (2,394) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Cash Paid | [7] | 2,370 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | [3] | $ 24 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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- Definition Gross amount of debt extinguished. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Difference between the fair value of payments made and the carrying amount of debt which is extinguished prior to maturity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The cash outflow attributable to repayments of borrowings not otherwise defined in the taxonomy (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Interest Rate Swaps (Details) $ in Millions |
12 Months Ended |
|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2013
USD ($)
| |
| Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] | |
| Income (loss) recognized in income discontinuation of hedge accounts | $ 17.1 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Loss Recognized in Income, due to discontinuation of hedge accounting on interest rate swaps previously qualifying for hedge accounting No definition available.
|
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
Swaps Foreign Currency Swaps (Details) AUD in Thousands, $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
|
Dec. 31, 2014
USD ($)
|
Dec. 31, 2013
USD ($)
|
Dec. 31, 2015
AUD
|
|||
| Derivative [Line Items] | ||||||
| Realized Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments | $ | $ 54,475 | $ 0 | $ 0 | |||
| Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | $ | $ 65,200 | |||||
| Foreign Exchange [Member] | ||||||
| Derivative [Line Items] | ||||||
| Derivative, Notional Amount | AUD | AUD 1,400,000 | |||||
| May 2015 cash receipt from sale of CCAL [Domain] | ||||||
| Derivative [Line Items] | ||||||
| Derivative, Notional Amount | AUD | AUD 1,400,000 | |||||
| Derivative, Inception Date | May 14, 2015 | |||||
| Derivative, Maturity Date | Jun. 12, 2015 | |||||
| Derivative, Currency Sold | US Dollar | |||||
| Derivative, Currency Bought | Australian Dollar | |||||
| Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate | 0.8072 | |||||
| Installment payment from Buyer [Domain] | ||||||
| Derivative [Line Items] | ||||||
| Derivative, Notional Amount | AUD | AUD 155,000 | |||||
| Derivative, Inception Date | May 14, 2015 | |||||
| Derivative, Maturity Date | Jan. 04, 2016 | |||||
| Derivative, Currency Sold | US Dollar | |||||
| Derivative, Currency Bought | Australian Dollar | |||||
| Derivative, Forward Exchange Rate | 0.7984 | |||||
| Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments | $ | [1] | $ 10,749 | ||||
| ||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of realized gain (loss) recognized in earnings in the period from the increase (decrease) in fair value of foreign currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of unrealized gain (loss) recognized in earnings in the period from the increase (decrease) in fair value of foreign currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate notional amount specified by the derivative(s). Expressed as an absolute value. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Identification of the specific currency to be purchased upon settlement or exercise of the foreign currency derivative. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Identification of the specific currency to be sold upon settlement or exercise of the foreign currency derivative. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Contractual rate at which a foreign currency can be purchased or sold. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Date the entity entered into the derivative contract, in CCYY-MM-DD format. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Date the derivative contract matures, in CCYY-MM-DD format. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of gain (loss) recognized in earnings in the period from the increase (decrease) in fair value of foreign currency derivatives not designated as hedging instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Fair Value Disclosures (Estimated Fair Values and Carrying Amounts of Assets and Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) |
12 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
|
| Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||
| Cash and cash equivalents, carrying value | $ 178,810,000 | $ 151,312,000 |
| Cash and cash equivalents, fair value | 178,810,000 | 151,312,000 |
| Restricted cash, carrying value | 135,731,000 | 152,411,000 |
| Restricted cash, fair value | 135,731,000 | 152,411,000 |
| Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range | 10,749,000 | 0 |
| Derivative Assets (Liabilities), at Fair Value, Net | 10,749,000 | 0 |
| Debt and other obligations, carrying amount | 12,249,238,000 | 11,920,861,000 |
| Debt and other obligations, fair value | 12,555,143,000 | 12,286,161,000 |
| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] | ||
| Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||
| Cash and cash equivalents, carrying value | 1 | |
| Restricted cash, carrying value | 1 | |
| Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] | ||
| Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||
| Debt Instrument, Issuance Date | 2 | |
| Debt and other obligations, carrying amount | 2 | |
| Securitized Debt [Member] | ||
| Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||
| Debt and other obligations, carrying amount | 4,041,592,000 | 3,573,208,000 |
| Fixed Rate Securitized Debt May 2015 Tower Revenue Notes [Member] [Domain] | Securitized Debt [Member] | ||
| Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] | ||
| Debt and other obligations, carrying amount | $ 1,000,000,000 | $ 0 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Sum of the fair values as of the balance sheet date of all debt, including all short-term borrowings, long-term debt, and capital lease obligations. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The fair value of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Excludes cash and cash equivalents within disposal group and discontinued operation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Fair value portion of currency on hand as well as demand deposits with banks or financial institutions. Includes other kinds of accounts that have the general characteristics of demand deposits. Also includes short-term, highly liquid investments that are both readily convertible to known amounts of cash and so near their maturity that they present insignificant risk of changes in value because of changes in interest rates. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all debt, including all short-term borrowings, long-term debt, and capital lease obligations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Fair value, after the effects of master netting arrangements, of a financial asset or other contract with one or more underlyings, notional amount or payment provision or both, and the contract can be net settled by means outside the contract or delivery of an asset, expected to be settled within one year or normal operating cycle, if longer. Includes assets not subject to a master netting arrangement and not elected to be offset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Fair values as of the balance sheet date of the net amount of all assets and liabilities resulting from contracts that meet the criteria of being accounted for as derivative instruments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) in the fair value of derivatives recognized in the income statement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The carrying amounts of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage. Restrictions may include legally restricted deposits held as compensating balances against borrowing arrangements, contracts entered into with others, or entity statements of intention with regard to particular deposits; however, time deposits and short-term certificates of deposit are not generally included in legally restricted deposits. Excludes compensating balance arrangements that are not agreements which legally restrict the use of cash amounts shown on the balance sheet. This element is for unclassified presentations; for classified presentations there is a separate and distinct element. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Valuation allowance, increase (decrease) | $ (3,000) | $ (9,000) | $ 0 |
| Federal tax benefits | (495) | (213) | $ (684) |
| non-cash income tax charge in conjunction with REIT conversion | 67,400 | ||
| Unrecognized Tax Benefits that Would Impact Effective Tax Rate | 6,700 | ||
| Stock Compensation Plan [Member] | |||
| Operating loss carryforwards | 244,600 | ||
| U.S. Federal [Member] | |||
| Operating loss carryforwards | 1,300,000 | ||
| State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | |||
| Operating loss carryforwards | $ 600,000 | ||
| Valuation Allowance, Operating Loss Carryforwards [Member] | |||
| Valuation allowance, increase (decrease) | $ 12,000 | ||
| Maximum [Member] | U.S. Federal [Member] | |||
| Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date | Dec. 31, 2032 | ||
| Maximum [Member] | State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | |||
| Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date | Dec. 31, 2035 | ||
| Minimum [Member] | U.S. Federal [Member] | |||
| Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date | Dec. 31, 2024 | ||
| Minimum [Member] | State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | |||
| Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date | Dec. 31, 2016 | ||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition non-cash income tax charge in conjunction with anticipated REIT conversion No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current federal tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of operating loss carryforward, before tax effects, available to reduce future taxable income under enacted tax laws. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Expiration date of each operating loss carryforward included in operating loss carryforward, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The total amount of unrecognized tax benefits that, if recognized, would affect the effective tax rate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) in the valuation allowance for a specified deferred tax asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Income Taxes (Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|||
| Income Taxes [Abstract] | |||||
| Domestic | $ 461,293 | $ 341,070 | $ 260,364 | ||
| Foreign | [1] | 12,536 | (6,000) | (9,363) | |
| Income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes | $ 473,829 | $ 335,070 | $ 251,001 | ||
| |||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Income Taxes [Abstract] No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The portion of earnings or loss from continuing operations before income taxes that is attributable to domestic operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The portion of earnings or loss from continuing operations before income taxes that is attributable to foreign operations, which is defined as Income or Loss generated from operations located outside the entity's country of domicile. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income or expense before Income or Loss from equity method investments, income taxes, extraordinary items, and noncontrolling interest. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Income Taxes (Benefit (Provision) for Income Taxes) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
[1] | Sep. 30, 2015 |
[1] | Jun. 30, 2015 |
[1] | Mar. 31, 2015 |
[1] | Dec. 31, 2014 |
Sep. 30, 2014 |
Jun. 30, 2014 |
Mar. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|||||
| Income Taxes [Abstract] | |||||||||||||||||||
| Current Federal | $ 495 | $ 213 | $ 684 | ||||||||||||||||
| Current Foreign | (5,675) | (6,413) | (5,110) | ||||||||||||||||
| Current State | (3,981) | (4,415) | (12,305) | ||||||||||||||||
| Total current | (9,161) | (10,615) | (16,731) | ||||||||||||||||
| Deferred Federal | 44,716 | 23,070 | (164,769) | ||||||||||||||||
| Deferred Foreign | (1,048) | (819) | (130) | ||||||||||||||||
| Deferred State | 16,950 | (392) | (9,370) | ||||||||||||||||
| Total deferred | 60,618 | 21,859 | (174,269) | ||||||||||||||||
| Benefit (provision) for income taxes | $ 42,077 | $ 3,801 | $ 4,144 | $ 1,435 | $ (3,126) | $ (1,977) | $ (3,101) | $ (3,040) | 51,457 | 11,244 | (191,000) | ||||||||
| Tax adjustment related to the small cell REIT conversion | [2] | $ 33,759 | $ 0 | $ 0 | |||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Income Taxes [Abstract] No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Tax adjustment related to the small cell REIT conversion No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current federal tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current foreign income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to taxable income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current state and local tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred federal income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred foreign income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred state and local tax expense (benefit) pertaining to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Income Taxes Income Taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
[3] | Sep. 30, 2015 |
[3] | Jun. 30, 2015 |
[3] | Mar. 31, 2015 |
[3] | Dec. 31, 2014 |
Sep. 30, 2014 |
Jun. 30, 2014 |
Mar. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
||||||||
| Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount | $ 165,840 | $ 117,274 | $ 87,850 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount | 527 | 4,296 | 3,277 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Tax adjustment related to REIT operations | (186,649) | (132,951) | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Tax adjustment related to the REIT conversion | [1] | 0 | 0 | (67,395) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Tax adjustment related to the small cell REIT conversion | [2] | (33,759) | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Losses for which no tax benefit was recognized | 414 | 463 | 9,570 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Valuation Allowance, Deferred Tax Asset, Increase (Decrease), Amount | (3,000) | (9,000) | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount | (1,210) | 3,136 | 14,852 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations | 6,723 | 7,232 | 5,240 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Other Adjustments, Amount | (343) | (1,694) | 2,816 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Income Tax Expense (Benefit) | $ (42,077) | $ (3,801) | $ (4,144) | $ (1,435) | $ 3,126 | $ 1,977 | $ 3,101 | $ 3,040 | $ (51,457) | $ (11,244) | $ 191,000 | |||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract] No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The portion of the difference between total income tax expense (benefit) as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to nondeductible capital loses under enacted tax laws. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total tax adjustment to the consolidated statement of operations related to the Company's REIT operations in the current year No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total tax adjustment to the consolidated statement of operations related to the Company's REIT conversion. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Tax adjustment related to the small cell REIT conversion No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current and deferred foreign income tax expense (benefit) attributable to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to foreign income tax expense (benefit). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of income tax expense or benefit for the period computed by applying the domestic federal statutory tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to other adjustments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to state and local income tax expense (benefit). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) in the valuation allowance for a specified deferred tax asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Income Taxes (Effective Tax Rate) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
[3] | Sep. 30, 2015 |
[3] | Jun. 30, 2015 |
[3] | Mar. 31, 2015 |
[3] | Dec. 31, 2014 |
Sep. 30, 2014 |
Jun. 30, 2014 |
Mar. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
||||||||
| Income Taxes (Effective Tax Rate) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Benefit (provision) for income taxes at statutory rate | $ (165,840) | $ (117,274) | $ (87,850) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Tax effect of foreign income (losses) | (527) | (4,296) | (3,277) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Tax adjustment related to REIT operations | 186,649 | 132,951 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Tax adjustment related to the REIT conversion | [1] | 0 | 0 | 67,395 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Tax adjustment related to the small cell REIT conversion | [2] | (33,759) | 0 | 0 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Expenses for which no federal tax benefit was recognized | (414) | (463) | (9,570) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Valuation allowances | 3,000 | 9,000 | 0 | |||||||||||||||||||
| State tax (provision) benefit, net of federal | 1,210 | (3,136) | (14,852) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Foreign tax | (6,723) | (7,232) | (5,240) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Other | 343 | 1,694 | (2,816) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total benefit (provision) for income taxes | $ 42,077 | $ 3,801 | $ 4,144 | $ 1,435 | $ (3,126) | $ (1,977) | $ (3,101) | $ (3,040) | $ 51,457 | 11,244 | $ (191,000) | |||||||||||
| REIT tax adjustment to reclassify a deferred tax charge from AOCI | (39,800) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| Capital Loss Carryforward [Member] | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Income Taxes (Effective Tax Rate) | ||||||||||||||||||||||
| Valuation allowances | $ (29,400) | |||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The portion of the difference between total income tax expense (benefit) as reported in the Income Statement for the period and the expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations attributable to nondeductible capital loses under enacted tax laws. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total REIT tax adjustment related to reclassification of deferred tax charge from AOCI to the Company's statement of operations No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total tax adjustment to the consolidated statement of operations related to the Company's REIT operations in the current year No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total tax adjustment to the consolidated statement of operations related to the Company's REIT conversion. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Tax adjustment related to the small cell REIT conversion No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current and deferred foreign income tax expense (benefit) attributable to income (loss) from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to foreign income tax expense (benefit). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of income tax expense or benefit for the period computed by applying the domestic federal statutory tax rates to pretax income from continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to other adjustments. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of the difference between reported income tax expense (benefit) and expected income tax expense (benefit) computed by applying the domestic federal statutory income tax rates to pretax income (loss) from continuing operations attributable to state and local income tax expense (benefit). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of increase (decrease) in the valuation allowance for a specified deferred tax asset. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Income Taxes (Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
|
| Property and equipment | $ 334 | $ 167,491 |
| Deferred site rental receivable | 5,742 | 18,320 |
| Intangible assets | 0 | 102,624 |
| Total deferred income tax liabilities | (13,200) | |
| Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross | 6,076 | 288,435 |
| Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets | 40,654 | |
| Net operating loss carryforwards | 7,891 | 133,096 |
| Deferred ground lease payable | 1,312 | 1,627 |
| Accrued liabilities | 4,183 | 158,813 |
| Receivable allowance | 196 | 1,459 |
| Other | 1,252 | 1,278 |
| Valuation allowance, asset | (1,994) | (21,038) |
| Total deferred income tax assets, net | 53,494 | 275,235 |
| Deferred Tax Assets, Net | 47,418 | |
| Domestic Tax Authority [Member] | ||
| Valuation allowance, asset | 0 | (3,000) |
| Deferred Tax Assets, Net | 48,273 | 3,557 |
| State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | ||
| Total deferred income tax liabilities | (15,746) | |
| Valuation allowance, asset | 0 | $ (16,208) |
| Deferred Tax Assets, Net | $ 1,203 | |
| Minimum [Member] | Domestic Tax Authority [Member] | ||
| Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date | Dec. 31, 2024 | |
| Minimum [Member] | State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | ||
| Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date | Dec. 31, 2016 | |
| Maximum [Member] | Domestic Tax Authority [Member] | ||
| Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date | Dec. 31, 2032 | |
| Maximum [Member] | State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | ||
| Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date | Dec. 31, 2035 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from intangible assets including goodwill. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount, after allocation of valuation allowances and deferred tax liability, of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible differences and carryforwards, before jurisdictional netting. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount after allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences and carryforwards. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible operating loss carryforwards. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences not separately disclosed. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from accrued liabilities. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from the allowance for doubtful accounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from deferred rent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred tax assets for which it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount, after deferred tax asset, of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable differences, before jurisdictional netting. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences from intangible assets other than goodwill. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences from leasing arrangements. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable temporary differences from property, plant, and equipment. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Expiration date of each operating loss carryforward included in operating loss carryforward, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Income Taxes (Jurisdictional Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
|---|---|---|
| Income Taxes (Jurisdictional components of deferred taxes) | ||
| Gross, asset | $ 49,412 | $ 7,838 |
| Valuation allowance, asset | (1,994) | (21,038) |
| Net deferred income tax assets (liabilities) | 47,418 | |
| Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net | (13,200) | |
| U.S. Federal [Member] | ||
| Income Taxes (Jurisdictional components of deferred taxes) | ||
| Gross, asset | 48,273 | 6,557 |
| Valuation allowance, asset | 0 | (3,000) |
| Net deferred income tax assets (liabilities) | 48,273 | 3,557 |
| State and Local Jurisdiction [Member] | ||
| Income Taxes (Jurisdictional components of deferred taxes) | ||
| Gross, asset | 1,203 | 462 |
| Valuation allowance, asset | 0 | (16,208) |
| Net deferred income tax assets (liabilities) | 1,203 | |
| Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net | (15,746) | |
| Foreign [Member] | ||
| Income Taxes (Jurisdictional components of deferred taxes) | ||
| Gross, asset | (64) | 819 |
| Valuation allowance, asset | (1,994) | (1,830) |
| Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net | $ (2,058) | $ (1,011) |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences and carryforwards. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount, after allocation of valuation allowances and deferred tax liability, of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible differences and carryforwards, before jurisdictional netting. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of deferred tax assets for which it is more likely than not that a tax benefit will not be realized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount, after deferred tax asset, of deferred tax liability attributable to taxable differences, before jurisdictional netting. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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Income Taxes Income Taxes (Unrecognized Tax Benefits) (Details) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | |
|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
|
| Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward] | ||
| Balance at beginning of year | $ 8,333 | $ 14,089 |
| Additions based on current year tax positions | 212 | 286 |
| Reductions as a result of the lapse of statute limitations | (1,775) | (6,042) |
| Balance at end of year | $ 6,770 | $ 8,333 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of unrecognized tax benefits pertaining to uncertain tax positions taken in tax returns. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of increase in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from tax positions that have been or will be taken in current period tax return. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of decrease in unrecognized tax benefits resulting from lapses of applicable statutes of limitations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Stockholders' Equity (Details) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
$ / shares
|
Sep. 30, 2015
USD ($)
$ / shares
|
Jun. 30, 2015
USD ($)
$ / shares
|
Mar. 31, 2015
USD ($)
$ / shares
|
Dec. 31, 2014
USD ($)
$ / shares
|
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
$ / shares
|
Dec. 31, 2014
USD ($)
$ / shares
|
Dec. 31, 2013
USD ($)
shares
|
||||||||
| Dividends Per Share, Common Stock | $ / shares | $ 0.885 | $ 0.82 | $ 0.82 | $ 0.82 | $ 1.1250 | ||||||||||
| Dividends Per Share, Convertible Preferred Stock | $ / shares | $ 1.125 | $ 1.1250 | $ 1.1250 | $ 1.1250 | $ 1.125 | ||||||||||
| Aggregate Payment Amount, Common Stock | $ 296,500 | [1] | $ 274,300 | [1] | $ 274,500 | [1] | $ 274,700 | [1] | $ 11,000 | [1] | $ 1,119,973 | $ 626,074 | |||
| Aggregate Payment Amount, Convertible Preferred Stock | $ 11,000 | $ 11,000 | $ 11,000 | $ 11,000 | $ 11,363 | ||||||||||
| Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock | $ 3,000,000 | ||||||||||||||
| 4.5% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share | $ / shares | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 | $ 0.01 | |||||||||||
| Net proceeds from issuance of preferred stock | $ 0 | $ 0 | 950,886 | ||||||||||||
| Purchases of common stock, value | 29,700 | $ 21,800 | $ 99,500 | ||||||||||||
| At the Market Stock Offering Program, aggregate value of common stock | $ 500,000 | $ 500,000 | |||||||||||||
| Minimum [Member] | |||||||||||||||
| Conversion factor, Preferred Stock | 1.1538 | ||||||||||||||
| Maximum [Member] | |||||||||||||||
| Conversion factor, Preferred Stock | 1.4421 | ||||||||||||||
| Preferred Stock [Member] | |||||||||||||||
| Declaration Date | Dec. 16, 2015 | Sep. 23, 2015 | Jun. 21, 2015 | Mar. 27, 2015 | Dec. 22, 2014 | ||||||||||
| Record Date | Jan. 16, 2016 | Oct. 15, 2015 | Jul. 15, 2015 | Apr. 15, 2015 | Jan. 15, 2015 | ||||||||||
| Payment Date | Feb. 01, 2016 | Nov. 02, 2015 | Aug. 03, 2015 | May 01, 2015 | Feb. 02, 2015 | ||||||||||
| Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues | shares | 9,775,000 | ||||||||||||||
| Common Stock [Member] | |||||||||||||||
| Declaration Date | Oct. 19, 2015 | Jul. 30, 2015 | May 29, 2015 | Feb. 12, 2015 | |||||||||||
| Record Date | Dec. 18, 2015 | Sep. 18, 2015 | Jun. 19, 2015 | Mar. 20, 2015 | |||||||||||
| Payment Date | Dec. 31, 2015 | Sep. 30, 2015 | Jun. 30, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2015 | |||||||||||
| Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues | shares | 41,400,000 | ||||||||||||||
| |||||||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Represents the aggregate value of common stock that the Company may issue and sales shares through its the At the Market Stock Offering Program. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Represents the conversion factor of the Company's Preferred Stock, depending on the applicable market value of the common stock. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate dividends paid during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Date the declared dividend will be paid, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of paid and unpaid common stock dividends declared with the form of settlement in cash. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Date the dividend to be paid was declared, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Date the holder must own the stock to be entitled to the dividend, in CCYY-MM-DD format. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of paid and unpaid preferred stock dividends declared with the form of settlement in cash. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate dividends paid during the period for each share of preferred stock outstanding. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Face amount or stated value per share of preferred stock nonredeemable or redeemable solely at the option of the issuer. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The cash inflow from the additional capital contribution to the entity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Proceeds from issuance of capital stock which provides for a specific dividend that is paid to the shareholders before any dividends to common stockholders and which takes precedence over common stockholders in the event of liquidation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Number of new stock issued during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Equity impact of the value of stock that has been repurchased during the period and has not been retired and is not held in treasury. Some state laws may mandate the circumstances under which an entity may acquire its own stock and prescribe the accounting treatment therefore. This element is used when state law does not recognize treasury stock. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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Stockholders' Equity Tax Treatment of Dividends Paid (Details) - $ / shares |
3 Months Ended | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Sep. 30, 2015 |
Jun. 30, 2015 |
Mar. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
|
| Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||||
| Preferred Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | $ 1.125 | $ 1.1250 | $ 1.1250 | $ 1.1250 | $ 1.125 |
| Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | $ 0.885 | $ 0.82 | $ 0.82 | $ 0.82 | $ 1.1250 |
| Preferred Stock [Member] | |||||
| Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||||
| Payment Date | Feb. 01, 2016 | Nov. 02, 2015 | Aug. 03, 2015 | May 01, 2015 | Feb. 02, 2015 |
| Common Stock [Member] | |||||
| Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||||
| Payment Date | Dec. 31, 2015 | Sep. 30, 2015 | Jun. 30, 2015 | Mar. 31, 2015 | |
| Ordinary Taxable Dividend Per Share [Member] | |||||
| Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||||
| Preferred Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | $ 0.312 | $ 0.312 | $ 0.312 | ||
| Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | $ 0.245 | 0.227 | $ 0.227 | 0.227 | |
| Qualified Taxable Dividend Per Share [Member] | |||||
| Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||||
| Preferred Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | 0.048 | 0.048 | 0.048 | ||
| Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | 0.038 | 0.035 | 0.035 | 0.035 | |
| Long-Term Capital Gain Distribution Per Share [Member] | |||||
| Class of Stock [Line Items] | |||||
| Preferred Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | 0.813 | 0.813 | $ 0.813 | ||
| Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | $ 0.640 | $ 0.593 | $ 0.593 | $ 0.593 | |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate dividends paid during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Date the declared dividend will be paid, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate dividends paid during the period for each share of preferred stock outstanding. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
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| X | ||||||||||
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| X | ||||||||||
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|
Stock-based Compensation (Narrative) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, shares in Millions, $ in Millions |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Shares available for future issuance (in shares) | 12.3 | ||
| Vesting Period | three | ||
| Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Shares available for future issuance (in shares) | 1.8 | ||
| Shares granted, number of shares | 1.0 | ||
| Restricted Stock [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Shares granted, weighted-average grant-date fair value (in dollars per share) | $ 69.96 | $ 57.78 | $ 46.37 |
| Weighted-average requisite service period (years) | 2 years 6 months | ||
| Restricted stock or unit expense | $ 57.1 | $ 45.8 | $ 37.8 |
| Performance Awards [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Shares granted, number of shares | 0.5 | ||
| Time Vesting Awards [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Shares granted, number of shares | 0.5 | ||
| Restricted Stock Awards [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Shares granted, number of shares | 1.0 | ||
| Compensation cost not yet recognized | $ 51.5 | ||
| Period for recognition | 1 year | ||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Represents the vesting period for the Company's restricted stock. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Unrecognized cost of unvested share-based compensation awards. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Weighted average period over which unrecognized compensation is expected to be recognized for equity-based compensation plans, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The noncash expense that represents the cost of restricted stock or unit distributed to employees as compensation. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Estimated period over which an employee is required to provide service in exchange for the equity-based payment award, in 'PnYnMnDTnHnMnS' format, for example, 'P1Y5M13D' represents the reported fact of one year, five months, and thirteen days. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The number of grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The weighted average fair value at grant date for nonvested equity-based awards issued during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The difference between the maximum number of shares (or other type of equity) authorized for issuance under the plan (including the effects of amendments and adjustments), and the sum of: 1) the number of shares (or other type of equity) already issued upon exercise of options or other equity-based awards under the plan; and 2) shares (or other type of equity) reserved for issuance on granting of outstanding awards, net of cancellations and forfeitures, if applicable. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Stock-based Compensation (Summary of Restricted Stock Awards Activity) (Details) - shares shares in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Restricted Stock Awards [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period | 1,000 | ||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross | 0 | ||
| Shares outstanding at the beginning of the year, number of shares | 1,440 | ||
| Shares outstanding at the end of year, number of shares | 663 | 1,440 | |
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares | (7) | ||
| Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period | 1,000 | ||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross | 1,027 | ||
| Shares outstanding at the beginning of the year, number of shares | 950 | ||
| Shares outstanding at the end of year, number of shares | 1,777 | 950 | |
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares | (24) | ||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The number of grants made during the period on other than stock (or unit) option plans (for example, phantom stock or unit plan, stock or unit appreciation rights plan, performance target plan). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The number of non-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Gross number of share options (or share units) granted during the period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Number of non-vested options forfeited. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Stock-based Compensation (Summary of the Assumptions Used in the Monte Carlo Simulation to Determine the Grant-Date Fair Value) (Details) |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Share-based Compensation [Abstract] | |||
| Risk-free rate | 1.00% | 0.70% | 0.40% |
| Expected volatility | 19.00% | 22.00% | 23.00% |
| Expected dividend rate | 4.21% | 1.93% | 0.00% |
| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The estimated dividend rate (a percentage of the share price) to be paid (expected dividends) to holders of the underlying shares over the option's term. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The estimated measure of the percentage by which a share price is expected to fluctuate during a period. Volatility also may be defined as a probability-weighted measure of the dispersion of returns about the mean. The volatility of a share price is the standard deviation of the continuously compounded rates of return on the share over a specified period. That is the same as the standard deviation of the differences in the natural logarithms of the stock prices plus dividends, if any, over the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The risk-free interest rate assumption that is used in valuing an option on its own shares. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
Stock-based Compensation (Summary of Restricted Stock Awards Vested) (Details) - USD ($) shares in Thousands, $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Total shares vested | 946 | 842 | 978 |
| Fair value on vesting date | $ 83,244 | $ 62,686 | $ 66,666 |
| Restricted Stock Awards [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number | 663 | 1,440 | |
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross | 0 | ||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period | 770 | ||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares | 7 | ||
| Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] | |||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number | 1,777 | 950 | |
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross | 1,027 | ||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period | 176 | ||
| Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares | 24 | ||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The number of non-vested equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that vested during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Gross number of share options (or share units) granted during the period. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Number of non-vested options forfeited. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total number of shares issued during the period, including shares forfeited, as a result of Restricted Stock Awards. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate value of stock related to Restricted Stock Awards issued during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Stock-based Compensation (Stock-Based Compensation Expense) (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] | |||
| Stock-based compensation expense | $ 67,148 | $ 56,431 | $ 39,030 |
| Site Rental Cost of Operations [Member] | |||
| Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] | |||
| Stock-based compensation expense | 8,969 | 6,565 | 1,193 |
| Network Services and Other Costs of Operations [Member] | |||
| Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] | |||
| Stock-based compensation expense | 5,370 | 4,889 | 1,799 |
| General and Administrative Expense [Member] | |||
| Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items] | |||
| Stock-based compensation expense | $ 52,809 | $ 44,977 | $ 36,038 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of expense, net of income tax, recognized during the period arising from equity-based compensation arrangements (for example, shares of stock, unit, stock options or other equity instruments) with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Details
|
Commitments and Contingencies Asset Retirement Obligations (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Asset Retirement Obligations [Line Items] | |||
| Accretion expense | $ 9,900 | $ 9,200 | $ 7,100 |
| Other long-term liabilities | 1,948,636 | $ 1,666,391 | |
| Estimated future undiscounted cash flows expected to be paid relating to asset retirement obligations | $ 1,100,000 | ||
| Subject to Capital Lease with Sprint, TMO, or AT&T [Member] | |||
| Asset Retirement Obligations [Line Items] | |||
| Tower count as a percentage of total towers | 54.00% | ||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition [Line Items] for Description of the Company's Asset Retirement Obligations [Table] No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition This disclosure represents the estimated future undiscounted cash flows expected to be paid relating to asset retirement obligations No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Tower count as a percentage of total towers No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of accretion expense recognized during the period that is associated with an asset retirement obligation. Accretion expense measures and incorporates changes due to the passage of time into the carrying amount of the liability. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Aggregate carrying amount, as of the balance sheet date, of noncurrent obligations not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
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Leases (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items] | |||
| Weighted average remaining term of tenant leases | 6 years | ||
| Maximum Current Term | 20 years | ||
| Tenant Leases 2016 | $ 2,824,247 | ||
| Tenant Leases 2017 | 2,757,293 | ||
| Tenant Leases 2018 | 2,675,956 | ||
| Tenant Leases 2019 | 2,548,699 | ||
| Tenant Leases 2020 | 2,391,202 | ||
| Tenant Leases thereafter | 6,890,891 | ||
| Total tenant leases | $ 20,088,288 | ||
| Percentage of wireless infrastructure that has non-cancelable operating leases | 78.00% | ||
| Operating Leases, Owned Land Under Tower, Expiration Term | 20 years | ||
| Operating Leases, Leased Land Under Tower, Expiration Term | 10 years | ||
| Operating leases 2016 | $ 564,114 | ||
| Operating leases 2017 | 571,325 | ||
| Operating leases 2018 | 575,605 | ||
| Operating leases 2019 | 579,376 | ||
| Operating leases 2020 | 580,894 | ||
| Operating leases thereafter | 7,669,357 | ||
| Total operating leases | 10,540,671 | ||
| Rental expense from operating leases | 657,100 | $ 645,300 | $ 482,300 |
| Contingent rental payments | $ 91,800 | $ 88,300 | $ 73,700 |
| Greater than 10 Years, Inclusive of Renewals at the Company's Option [Member] | |||
| Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items] | |||
| Percentage of site rental gross margin that is derived from towers where the lease for the land has a final expiration date | 90.00% | ||
| Greater than 20 Years, Inclusive of Renewals at the Company's Option [Member] | |||
| Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items] | |||
| Percentage of site rental gross margin that is derived from towers where the lease for the land has a final expiration date | 75.00% | ||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Maximum current term of tenant contracts, excluding the exercise of tenant renewal options. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Maximum current lease expiration term, in years, of operating leases for tower under which the company owns land. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Rental expense incurred for leased assets. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Operating Leases, Leased Land Under Tower, Expiration Term No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Percentage of site rental gross margin that is derived from towers where the lease for the land has a final expiration date. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The percentage of towers, office space and equipment that is on land that has non-cancelable operating leases. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Weighted-average remaining term of tenant leases, exclusive of renewals at the tenant's option No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of required minimum rental payments for leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable letter-terms in excess of one year. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the next fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the fourth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the third fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due in the second fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Amount of required minimum rental payments for operating leases having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease term in excess of one year due after the fifth fiscal year following the latest fiscal year. Excludes interim and annual periods when interim periods are reported on a rolling approach, from latest balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Future minimum rental payments in aggregate as of the balance sheet date under operating leases. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Future rental payments receivable within one year of the balance sheet date under an operating lease. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Future rental payments receivable within the fifth year from the balance sheet date under an operating lease. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Future rental payments receivable within the fourth year from the balance sheet date under an operating lease. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Future rental payments receivable within the third year from the balance sheet date under an operating lease. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Future rental payments receivable within the second year from the balance sheet date under an operating lease. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Future minimum lease payments receivable under operating leases for periods greater than five years following the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The increases or decreases in lease payments that result from changes occurring after the inception of the lease in the factors (other than the passage of time) on which lease payments are based, except that any escalation of minimum lease payments relating to increases in construction or acquisition cost of the leased property or for increases in some measure of cost or value during the construction or preconstruction period, are excluded from contingent rentals. Contingent rentals also may include amounts for which the triggering events have not yet occurred or the specified targets for which have not yet been achieved (such as sales based percentage rent), but which events are considered probable of occurring or which specified targets are considered probable of being achieved. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk (Major Customers) (Details) |
12 Months Ended | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
||||
| Percentage of the consolidated revenues | 89.00% | 90.00% | 92.00% | |||
| AT&T [Member] | ||||||
| Percentage of the consolidated revenues | [1] | 27.00% | 26.00% | 23.00% | ||
| Sprint [Member] | ||||||
| Percentage of the consolidated revenues | [1] | 19.00% | 25.00% | 28.00% | ||
| Verizon Wireless [Member] | ||||||
| Percentage of the consolidated revenues | 21.00% | 18.00% | 17.00% | |||
| T-Mobile [Member] | ||||||
| Percentage of the consolidated revenues | [1] | 22.00% | 21.00% | 24.00% | ||
| ||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition For an entity that discloses a concentration risk in relation to quantitative amount, which serves as the "benchmark" (or denominator) in the equation, this concept represents the concentration percentage derived from the division. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Supplemental Cash Flow Information (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||
|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|
| Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] | |||
| Interest paid | $ 489,970 | $ 491,076 | $ 477,395 |
| Income taxes paid (refund) | 28,771 | 18,770 | 15,591 |
| Increase (Decrease) in accounts payable for purchases of property and equipment | (7,042) | 11,407 | (1,082) |
| Purchase of property and equipment under capital leases and installment purchases | 60,270 | 43,609 | 57,361 |
| Installment payment receivable for sale of subsidiary | $ 117,384 | $ 0 | $ 0 |
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Increase (Decrease) in accounts payable for purchases of property and equipment No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Installment payment receivable for sale of subsidiary No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Purchase of property and equipment under capital leases and installment purchases No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of cash paid during the current period to foreign, federal, state, and local authorities as taxes on income, net of any cash received during the current period as refunds for the overpayment of taxes. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The amount of cash paid for interest during the period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
|
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited) (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Sep. 30, 2015 |
Jun. 30, 2015 |
Mar. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Sep. 30, 2014 |
Jun. 30, 2014 |
Mar. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
||||||||||||||||||
| Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net revenues | $ 945,836 | $ 918,107 | $ 899,437 | $ 900,471 | $ 925,868 | $ 892,883 | $ 878,242 | $ 841,763 | $ 3,663,851 | $ 3,538,756 | $ 2,865,751 | |||||||||||||||||
| Operating income (loss) | 229,736 | 230,802 | 240,731 | 244,911 | 245,245 | 239,052 | 217,178 | 239,207 | 946,180 | 940,682 | 880,704 | |||||||||||||||||
| Benefit (provision) for income taxes | 42,077 | [1] | 3,801 | [1] | 4,144 | [1] | 1,435 | [1] | (3,126) | (1,977) | (3,101) | (3,040) | 51,457 | 11,244 | (191,000) | |||||||||||||
| Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations | 0 | 0 | (4,181) | 24 | 0 | 0 | (44,629) | 0 | (4,157) | [2] | (44,629) | [3] | (37,127) | [4] | ||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders | $ 141,062 | $ 103,779 | $ 1,153,360 | $ 122,791 | $ 148,070 | $ 106,937 | $ 34,009 | $ 101,497 | $ 1,520,992 | $ 390,513 | $ 90,111 | |||||||||||||||||
| Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share: | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Basic (in dollars per share) | $ 0.39 | $ 0.28 | $ 3.43 | $ 0.34 | $ 0.41 | $ 0.29 | $ 0.07 | $ 0.27 | $ 4.44 | $ 1.04 | $ 0.26 | |||||||||||||||||
| Diluted (in dollars per share) | $ 0.39 | $ 0.28 | $ 3.42 | $ 0.34 | $ 0.41 | $ 0.29 | $ 0.07 | $ 0.27 | $ 4.42 | $ 1.04 | $ 0.26 | |||||||||||||||||
| Tax adjustment related to the REIT conversion | [5] | $ 0 | $ 0 | $ (67,395) | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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- Definition Total tax adjustment to the consolidated statement of operations related to the Company's REIT conversion. No definition available.
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- Definition The amount of net income (loss) for the period per each share of common stock or unit outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- References No definition available.
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- Definition The amount of net income (loss) for the period available to each share of common stock or common unit outstanding during the reporting period and to each share or unit that would have been outstanding assuming the issuance of common shares or units for all dilutive potential common shares or units outstanding during the reporting period. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Difference between the fair value of payments made and the carrying amount of debt which is extinguished prior to maturity. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of current income tax expense (benefit) and deferred income tax expense (benefit) pertaining to continuing operations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition The portion of profit or loss for the period, net of income taxes, which is attributable to the parent. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition The net result for the period of deducting operating expenses from operating revenues. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total revenue from sale of goods and services rendered during the reporting period, in the normal course of business, reduced by sales returns and allowances, and sales discounts. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- References No definition available.
|
Subsequent Events (Details) - USD ($) $ / shares in Units, $ in Thousands |
3 Months Ended | 12 Months Ended | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Sep. 30, 2015 |
Jun. 30, 2015 |
Mar. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2015 |
||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Debt and Capital Lease Obligations | $ 12,249,238 | $ 11,920,861 | $ 12,249,238 | ||||||||
| Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | $ 0.885 | $ 0.82 | $ 0.82 | $ 0.82 | $ 1.1250 | ||||||
| Dividend Declared [Member] | Common Stock [Member] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Dividends Payable, Date Declared | Feb. 18, 2016 | ||||||||||
| Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid | Mar. 31, 2016 | ||||||||||
| Dividends Payable, Date of Record | Mar. 18, 2016 | ||||||||||
| Refinancings of Debt [Member] | Senior Unsecured 2016 Credit Facility [Domain] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | $ 5,500,000 | $ 5,500,000 | |||||||||
| Refinancings of Debt [Member] | Senior Unsecured 364-Day Revolving Credit Facility [Domain] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | 1,000,000 | 1,000,000 | |||||||||
| Refinancings of Debt [Member] | Senior Unsecured Term Loan A Facility Due January 2021 [Domain] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Debt and Capital Lease Obligations | 2,000,000 | 2,000,000 | |||||||||
| Refinancings of Debt [Member] | 2016 Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Revolver [Domain] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity | 2,500,000 | 2,500,000 | |||||||||
| Refinancings of Debt [Member] | 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Domain] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | 1,500,000 | 1,500,000 | |||||||||
| Refinancings of Debt [Member] | 3.4% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2021 [Domain] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 600,000 | $ 600,000 | |||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [1] | 3.40% | 3.40% | ||||||||
| Refinancings of Debt [Member] | 4.45% Senior Unsecured Notes Due 2026 [Domain] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Face Amount | $ 900,000 | $ 900,000 | |||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage | [1],[2] | 4.45% | 4.45% | ||||||||
| Refinancings of Debt [Member] | Senior Unsecured 2016 Credit Facility [Domain] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Rate Range, Minimum | [1],[2] | 1.125% | |||||||||
| Effective Percentage Rate Range, Maximum | [1],[2] | 2.00% | |||||||||
| Paid subsequent to year end [Member] | |||||||||||
| Subsequent Event [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid | $ 0.885 | ||||||||||
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- Definition Aggregate dividends paid during the period for each share of common stock outstanding. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all debt, including all short-term borrowings, long-term debt, and capital lease obligations. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Face (par) amount of debt instrument at time of issuance. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition When presenting a range of interest rates, the highest effective rate for funds borrowed under the debt agreement as of the balance sheet date. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Minimum contractual interest rate for funds borrowed, under the debt agreement. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Date the declared dividend will be paid, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Date the dividend to be paid was declared, in CCYY-MM-DD format. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Date the holder must own the stock to be entitled to the dividend, in CCYY-MM-DD format. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Maximum borrowing capacity under the credit facility without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Detail information of subsequent event by type. User is expected to use existing line items from elsewhere in the taxonomy as the primary line items for this disclosure, which is further associated with dimension and member elements pertaining to a subsequent event. No definition available.
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Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Dec. 31, 2015 |
Dec. 31, 2014 |
Dec. 31, 2013 |
|||
| Allowance for Doubtful Accounts [Member] | |||||
| Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] | |||||
| Balance at beginning of year | $ 10,037 | $ 7,547 | $ 7,562 | ||
| Charged to operations | 2,958 | 3,101 | 1,351 | ||
| Credited to operations | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Written off | $ (3,421) | (611) | (1,366) | ||
| Effect of exchange rate changes or Other adjustments | 0 | 0 | |||
| Balance at end of year | $ 9,574 | 10,037 | 7,547 | ||
| Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance [Member] | |||||
| Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward] | |||||
| Balance at beginning of year | 21,038 | 27,264 | 70,940 | ||
| Charged to operations | 164 | 1,797 | 717 | ||
| Credited to operations | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Written off | (3,000) | (9,106) | (2,174) | ||
| Effect of exchange rate changes or Other adjustments | 0 | 0 | 0 | ||
| Valuation allowance and reserves, other adjustments | [1] | (16,208) | 1,083 | (42,219) | |
| Balance at end of year | $ 1,994 | $ 21,038 | $ 27,264 | ||
| |||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Valuation allowance and reserves, other adjustments No definition available.
|
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total of the adjustments in a given period to allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total of allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total of allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs, charged to costs and expenses. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total of the deductions in a given period to allowances and reserves, the valuation and qualifying accounts that are either netted against the cost of an asset (in order to value it at its carrying value) or that reflect a liability established to represent expected future costs, representing receivables written off as uncollectible and portions of the reserves utilized, respectively. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Total of recoveries of amounts due the Entity that had previously been written off as uncollectible using allowances (the valuation accounts that are netted against the cost of an asset to value it at its carrying value) and total of reestablishments of reserves (liabilities established to represent expected future costs) that had previously been utilized. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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Schedule III - Schedule of Real Estate and Depreciation (Details) $ in Thousands |
12 Months Ended | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Dec. 31, 2015
USD ($)
tower
|
Dec. 31, 2014
USD ($)
|
||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items] | |||||||||||
| Encumbrances Secured by Assets | $ 5,700,000 | ||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Number of Units | tower | 39,697 | ||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances | [1] | $ 9,752,747 | |||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation | (5,648,598) | $ (4,917,542) | |||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation, Depreciation Expense | (759,332) | ||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation, Real Estate Sold | 23,946 | ||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Accumulated Depreciation, Other Deductions | 4,330 | ||||||||||
| Real Estate Period Deductions to Accumulated Depreciation | 28,276 | ||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Gross | 15,110,835 | $ 13,795,914 | |||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Other Acquisitions | [2],[3] | 424,919 | |||||||||
| Wireless Infrastructure Construction | 713,465 | ||||||||||
| Purchase of land interests | 90,496 | ||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Improvements | 75,888 | ||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Other Additions | [4] | 61,801 | |||||||||
| Real Estate Period Additions to Cost | 1,366,569 | ||||||||||
| SEC Schedule III, Real Estate, Cost of Real Estate Sold | $ (51,648) | ||||||||||
| |||||||||||
| X | ||||||||||
- Definition Encumbrances Secured by Assets No definition available.
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| X | ||||||||||
- Definition SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Additions - Purchase of land interests No definition available.
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- Definition SEC Schedule III - Total Real Estate Period Additions to Cost No definition available.
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- Definition SEC Schedule III - Real Estate Period Deductions to Accumulated Depreciation No definition available.
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- Definition SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Additions - Wireless Infrastructure Construction No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of accumulated depreciation pertaining to real estate investments for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of other deductions to accumulated depreciation, excluding sales, for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of decrease to accumulated depreciation for real estate investments sold for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of lien or mortgage outstanding on real estate investment properties for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Line items represent financial concepts included in a table. These concepts are used to disclose reportable information associated with domain members defined in one or many axes to the table. No definition available.
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- Definition Amount of real estate investments sold for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount, before accumulated depreciation, of real estate investments for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of increase in real estate investments related to improvements for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of increase in real estate investments from acquisitions other than through foreclosure for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of other additions excluding acquisition or improvement to real estate investments for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Amount of depreciation expense of real estate investments for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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- Definition Number of units of real estate held for investment for entities with a substantial portion of business acquiring and holding investment real estate. Reference 1: http://www.xbrl.org/2003/role/presentationRef
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