Leases [Abstract]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Table]
Statement [Line Items]
Statement [Line Items]
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, 2019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due 2020
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due 2021
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due 2022
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due 2023
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due
Statement of Cash Flows [Abstract]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Legal Entity [Axis]
Entity [Domain]
Entity [Domain]
Cash flows from operating activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Adjustments to reconcile net income (loss) to net cash provided by (used for) operating activities:
Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract]
Depreciation, amortization and accretion
Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion, Net
(Gains) losses on retirement of long-term obligations
Gain (Loss) on Extinguishment of Debt
Gains (Losses) on Settled Swaps
Realized Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated As Hedging Instruments
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.
Amortization of deferred financing costs and other non-cash interest
Amortization Of Deferred Financing Costs And Other Noncash Interest
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.
Stock-based compensation expense
Share-based Compensation
Asset write-down charges
Asset Impairment Charges
Deferred income tax (benefit) provision
Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Other non-cash adjustments, net
Other Noncash Income (Expense)
Changes in assets and liabilities, excluding the effects of acquisitions:
Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract]
Increase (decrease) in accrued interest
Increase (Decrease) in Interest Payable, Net
Increase (decrease) in accounts payable
Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable, Trade
Increase (decrease) in deferred revenues, deferred ground lease payables, other accrued liabilities and other liabilities
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Liabilities
Decrease (increase) in receivables
Increase (Decrease) in Receivables
Decrease (increase) in prepaid expenses, deferred site rental receivables, long-term prepaid rent and other assets
Increase (Decrease) in Other Operating Assets
Net cash provided by (used for) operating activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities
Cash flows from investing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract]
Payments for acquisitions, net of cash acquired
Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired
Capital expenditures
Payments to Acquire Productive Assets
Net (payments) receipts from settled swaps
Realized Gain (loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as a Hedge
Realized Gain (loss) on Foreign Currency Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments
Other investing activities, net
Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities
Cash flows from financing activities:
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract]
Proceeds from issuance of long-term debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Long-term Debt
Principal payments on debt and other long-term obligations
Repayments of Other Debt
Purchases and redemptions of long-term debt
Repayments of Long-term Debt
Borrowings under revolving credit facility
Proceeds from Lines of Credit
Payments under revolving credit facility
Repayments of Lines of Credit
Payments for financing costs
Payments of Financing Costs
Net proceeds from issuance of common stock
Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity
Net proceeds from issuance of preferred stock
Proceeds from Issuance of Preferred Stock and Preference Stock
Purchases of common stock
Payments for Repurchase of Common Stock
Dividends/distributions paid on common stock
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Common Stock
Dividends paid on preferred stock
Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Preferred Stock and Preference Stock
Net cash provided by (used for) financing activities
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities
Net increase (decrease) in cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash from continuing operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Continuing Operations
Net cash provided by (used for) investing activities
Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Discontinued Operations
Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents - discontinued operations
Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Discontinued Operations
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash
Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at beginning of period
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value, Including Discontinued Operations
Cash, cash equivalents, and restricted cash at end of period
Discontinued Operations [Abstract]
Discontinued Operations [Abstract]
Statement of Stockholders' Equity [Abstract]
Operating Activities [Axis]
Operating Activities [Axis]
Operating Activities [Domain]
Operating Activities [Domain]
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member]
Discontinued Operations, Disposed of by Sale [Member]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario [Axis]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Scenario, Unspecified [Domain]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Axis]
Class of Stock [Domain]
Class of Stock [Domain]
6.875% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
6.875% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
6.875% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred Stock [Member]
Preferred Stock [Member]
Common Stock [Member]
Common Stock [Member]
Dividends/Distributions in Excess of Earnings
Retained Earnings [Member]
4.50% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
4.50% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
4.50% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock [Member]
Statement, Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Components [Axis]
Equity Component [Domain]
Equity Component [Domain]
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Noncontrolling Interest [Member]
Additional Paid-in Capital
Additional Paid-in Capital [Member]
Foreign Currency Translation Adjustments
Accumulated Foreign Currency Adjustment Attributable to Parent [Member]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward]
Balance, value
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Balance, (in shares)
Common Stock, Shares, Outstanding
Convertible Preferred Stock, shares outstanding
Preferred Stock, Shares Outstanding
Stock-based compensation related activity, net of forfeitures, value
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Purchases of common stock, shares
Stock Repurchased During Period, Shares
Stock-based compensation related activity, net of forfeitures, shares
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures
Purchases and retirement of capital stock, value
Stock Repurchased and Retired During Period, Value
Conversion of redeemable preferred stock into Common Stock, shares
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Conversion of Convertible Securities
Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted
Conversion of Stock, Shares Converted
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues
Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Proceeds and Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation
Proceeds and Excess Tax Benefit from Share-based Compensation
Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination
Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Business Combination
Accumulated other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax
Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease)
Noncontrolling Interest, Period Increase (Decrease)
Common stock dividends/distributions
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Preferred stock dividends
Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash
Net income (loss)
Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest
Balance, value
Balance, (in shares)
Stockholders' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract]
Stockholders' Equity
Stockholders' Equity Note Disclosure [Text Block]
Selected Quarterly Financial Information [Abstract]
Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block]
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes
Schedule of Income before Income Tax, Domestic and Foreign [Table Text Block]
Benefit (Provision) for Income Taxes
Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block]
Effective Tax Rate
Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block]
Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Jurisdictional Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities
Jurisdictional Components of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Text Block]
A table representing the jurisdictional components of the deferred tax assets and liabilities disclosed as gross, the associtated valuation allowance, and net.
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent Event [Table]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Axis]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Subsequent Event Type [Domain]
Debt [Member]
Debt [Member]
Dividends [Axis]
Dividends [Axis]
Dividends [Domain]
Dividends [Domain]
Paid subsequent to year end [Member]
Paid subsequent to year end [Member]
Paid subsequent to year end [Member]
Dividend Declared [Member]
Dividend Declared [Member]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Axis]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
Long-term Debt, Type [Domain]
February 2019 Senior Notes [Domain]
February 2019 Senior Notes [Domain]
February 2019 Senior Notes [Domain]
February 2019 Senior Unsecured 4.300% Notes [Member]
February 2019 Senior Unsecured 4.300% Notes [Member]
February 2019 Senior Unsecured 4.300% Notes [Member]
February 2019 Senior Unsecured 5.200% Notes [Member]
February 2019 Senior Unsecured 5.200% Notes [Member]
February 2019 Senior Unsecured 5.200% Notes [Member]
Equity Components [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument [Axis]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
Debt Instrument, Name [Domain]
High Yield Bonds [Member]
High Yield Bonds [Member]
High Yield Bonds [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt Instrument, Face Amount
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date
Dividends Payable, Date Declared
Dividends Payable, Date Declared
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid
Dividends Payable, Date to be Paid
Dividends Payable, Date of Record
Dividends Payable, Date of Record
Accounting Policies [Abstract]
Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block]
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Instrument [Axis]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Derivative Contract [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Axis]
Fair Value, Measurements, Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain]
Fair Value Hierarchy and NAV [Domain]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Fair Value, Balance Sheet Grouping, Financial Statement Captions [Line Items]
Cash and cash equivalents, carrying value
Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value
Cash and cash equivalents, fair value
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Fair Value Disclosure
Restricted cash, carrying value
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents
Restricted cash, fair value
Restricted Cash Fair Value Disclosure
The fair value of cash and cash equivalent items which are restricted as to withdrawal or usage.
Debt and other obligations, carrying amount
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Debt and other obligations, fair value
Debt And Capital Lease Obligations Fair Value Disclosures
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.
Dividends Declared [Abstract]
Dividends Declared [Abstract]
Dividends Declared
Dividends Declared [Table Text Block]
Tax Treatment of Dividends Paid [Table Text Block]
Tax Treatment of Dividends Paid [Table Text Block]
[Table Text Block] for Tax Treatment of Dividends Paid [Table]
Share-based Compensation [Abstract]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table]
Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis]
Award Type [Axis]
Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Domain]
Equity Award [Domain]
Restricted Stock [Member]
Restricted Stock Awards [Member]
Restricted Stock Awards [Member]
Restricted Stock Awards
Restricted Stock Units (RSUs) [Member]
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 [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Grants in Period, Gross
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Shares outstanding at the beginning of the year, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number
Shares outstanding at the end of year, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Options, Nonvested Options Forfeited, Number of Shares
Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk [Abstract]
Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risk [Abstract]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Axis]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Income Statement Location [Domain]
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Selling, General and Administrative Expenses [Member]
Cost of Sales [Member]
Cost of Sales [Member]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Axis]
Segments [Domain]
Segments [Domain]
Major Customers [Axis]
Customer [Axis]
Name of Major Customer [Domain]
Customer [Domain]
AT&T [Member]
AT T [Member]
AT&T
Sprint [Member]
Sprint [Member]
Sprint
Verizon Wireless [Member]
Verizon Wireless [Member]
Verizon Wireless
T-Mobile [Member]
T-Mobile [Member]
T-Mobile
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Concentration Risk, Percentage
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Axis]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Disposal Group Name [Domain]
Disposal Group Classification [Axis]
Disposal Group Classification [Axis]
Disposal Group Classification [Domain]
Disposal Group Classification [Domain]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items]
Interest expense on debt obligations
Interest Expense, Debt
Amortization of deferred financing costs and adjustments on long-term debt, net
Amortization of Debt Issuance Costs
Capitalized Interest
Interest Costs Capitalized
Other
Interest Expense, Other
Total
Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs
The cost of borrowed funds and the amortization of interest rate swaps accounted for as interest that was charged against earnings during the period.
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract]
Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash [Table Text Block]
[Table Text Block] for Schedule of Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash [Table]
Supplemental Disclosure of Cash Flow Information and Non-cash Investing and Financing Activities
Schedule of Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Table Text Block]
Summary of Restricted Stock Awards Activity
Share-based Compensation, Activity [Table Text Block]
Summary of the Assumptions Used in the Monte Carlo Simulation to Determine the Grant-Date Fair Value
Summary of the Assumptions Used in the Monte Carlo Simulation to Determine the Grant-Date Fair Value [Text Block]
Summary of the Assumptions Used in the Monte Carlo Simulation to Determine the Grant-Date Fair Value
Summary of Restricted Stock Vested
Summary of Restricted Stock Vested [Text Block]
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.
Stock Based Compensation Expense
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table Text Block]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
Statement of Financial Position [Abstract]
ASSETS
Assets [Abstract]
Cash and cash equivalents
Restricted cash
Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current
Receivables, net of allowance of $14 and $14, respectively
Accounts Receivable, Net, Current
Prepaid expenses
Prepaid Expense, Current
Other current assets
Other Assets, Current
Total current assets
Assets, Current
Deferred site rental receivables
Deferred Rent Receivables, Net, Noncurrent
Property and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Net
Goodwill
Goodwill
Site rental contracts and tenant relationships, net
Site Rental Contracts And Tenant Relationships Net
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.
Other intangible assets, net
Other Intangible Assets, Net
Long-term prepaid rent and other assets, net
Other Assets, Noncurrent
Total assets
Assets
LIABILITIES AND EQUITY
Liabilities and Equity [Abstract]
Accounts payable
Accounts Payable, Current
Accrued interest
Interest Payable, Current
Deferred revenues
Deferred Revenue, Current
Other accrued liabilities
Other Liabilities, Current
Current maturities of debt and other obligations
Debt, Current
Total current liabilities
Liabilities, Current
Debt and other long-term obligations
Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Other long-term liabilities
Other Liabilities, Noncurrent
Total liabilities
Liabilities
CCIC stockholders' equity:
Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Parent [Abstract]
Common stock, $0.01 par value; 600 shares authorized; shares issued and outstanding: December 31, 2018—415 and December 31, 2017—406
Common Stock, Value, Issued
6.875% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, Series A, $0.01 par value; 20 shares authorized; shares issued and outstanding: December 31, 2018—2 and December 31, 2017—2; aggregate liquidation value: December 31, 2018—$1,650 and December 31, 2017—$1,650
Preferred Stock, Value, Issued
Additional paid-in capital
Additional Paid in Capital
Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)
Dividends/distributions in excess of earnings
Retained Earnings (Accumulated Deficit)
Total equity
Total liabilities and equity
Liabilities and Equity
Risk-free rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Risk Free Interest Rate
Expected volatility
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Volatility Rate
Expected dividend rate
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Assumptions, Expected Dividend Rate
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Axis]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Consolidation Items [Domain]
Towers [Member]
Towers [Member]
Towers
Fiber [Member]
Small Cells [Member]
Small Cells
Other [Member]
Other [Member]
Other
Subsegments [Axis]
Subsegments [Axis]
Subsegments [Domain]
Subsegments [Domain]
Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis]
Subsegments Consolidation Items [Axis]
Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain]
Subsegments Consolidation Items [Domain]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Segment Site Rental Revenues
Segment Site Rental Revenues
Segment Site Rental Revenues
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense
Segment Services and Other Revenues
Segment Service and Other Revenues
Segment Services and Other Revenues
Segment Revenues
Segment Revenues
Segment Revenues
Direct Costs of Leased and Rented Property or Equipment
Segment Site Rental Cost of Operations
Segment Site Rental Cost of Operations
Segment Services and Other Cost of Operations
Segment Services and Other Cost of Operations
Segment Services and Other Cost of Operations
Segment Cost of Operations
Segment Cost of Operations
Segment Cost of Operations
Segment site rental gross margin
Segment site rental gross margin
Segment site rental gross margin is defined as segment site rental revenues less segment site rental cost of operations, which excludes stock-based compensation expense and prepaid lease purchase price adjustments recorded in consolidated cost of operations.
Segment General and Administrative Expenses
Segment General and Administrative Expenses
Segment General and Administrative Expenses
Segment Operating Profit
Segment Operating Profit
Segment Operating Profit is defined as segment site rental gross margin plus segment network services and other gross margin, less general and administrative expenses attributable to the respective segment.
Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs
Other income (expenses) to reconcile to income (loss) before income taxes
Other income (expenses) to reconcile to income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
Other income (expenses) to reconcile to income (loss) from continuing operations before income taxes
Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes
Assets
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block]
A Summary of the Percentage of the Consolidated Revenues for Those Customers Accounting for More than 10% of the Consolidated Revenues
Schedule of Revenue by Major Customers by Reporting Segments [Table Text Block]
Schedule III - Schedule of Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Abstract]
Schedule III - Schedule of Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Abstract]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, by Property [Table]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, by Property [Table]
Name of Property [Axis]
Name of Property [Axis]
Name of Property [Domain]
Name of Property [Domain]
Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis]
Real Estate, Type of Property [Axis]
Real Estate [Domain]
Real Estate [Domain]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation [Line Items]
Tower Count
Tower Count
Represents the Company's tower count. Inclusive of towers and other structures, such as rooftops
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation, Amount of Encumbrances
Gross Amount of Accumulated Depreciation Carried
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation
Depreciation
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Depreciation Expense
Amount of Accumulated Depreciation Sold or Disposed
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Investment in Real Estate Sold
Other Deductions to Accumulated Depreciation
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation, Other Deduction
Real Estate Period Deductions to Accumulated Depreciation
Real Estate Period Deductions to Accumulated Depreciation
SEC Schedule III - Real Estate Period Deductions to Accumulated Depreciation
Gross Amount of Property Carried
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Gross
Other Acquisitions
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Other Acquisition
Wireless Infrastructure Construction and Improvements
Communications Infrastructure Construction
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Additions - Wireless Infrastructure Construction
Purchase of land interests
Purchase of land interests
SEC Schedule III, Real Estate Additions - Purchase of land interests
Sustaining Capital Expenditures
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Improvements
Other Additions
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Other Addition
Total Additions
Real Estate Period Additions to Cost
SEC Schedule III - Total Real Estate Period Additions to Cost
Cost of Real Estate Sold or Disposed
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Cost of Investment in Real Estate Sold
Fiber Miles
Fiber Miles
Fiber Miles that the Company owns and operates.
Restricted Stock [Member]
Performance Awards [Member]
Performance Awards [Member]
Performance Awards
Time Vesting Awards [Member]
Time Vesting Awards [Member]
Time Vesting Awards
Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Axis]
Reporting Segment [Domain]
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Shares available for future issuance (in shares)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Available for Grant
Shares granted, number of shares
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period
Shares granted, weighted-average grant-date fair value (in dollars per share)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value
Weighted-average requisite service period (years)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Requisite Service Period
Vesting Period
Represents the vesting period for the Company's restricted stock.
Restricted stock or unit expense
Restricted Stock or Unit Expense
Compensation cost not yet recognized
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized
Period for recognition
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized, Period for Recognition
Schedule II Valuation and Qualifying Accounts
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
Schedule II - Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Schedule of Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Text Block]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Site Rental Contracts and Customer Relationships [Member]
Site Rental Contracts and Customer Relationships
Goodwill and Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Schedule of Goodwill
Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block]
Intangible Assets
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Amortization Expense
Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Estimated Annual Amortization Expense
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block]
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block]
Debt and Other Obligations [Abstract]
Debt and Other Obligations [Abstract}
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table]
Additional Principal Incurred [Member]
Additional Principal Incurred [Member]
Additional Principal Incurred [Member]
February 2016 Senior Note Upsizing [Member]
February 2016 Senior Note Upsizing [Member]
February 2016 Senior Note Upsizing [Member]
Collateral [Axis]
Collateral [Axis]
Collateral [Domain]
Collateral [Domain]
Collateral Pledged [Member]
Collateral Pledged [Member]
Repayments of debt, maturity date [Axis]
Repayments of debt, maturity date [Axis]
Repayments of debt, maturity date [Axis]
Repayments of debt, maturity date [Domain]
Repayments of debt, maturity date [Domain]
Repayments of debt, maturity date [Domain]
August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes ARD [Domain]
August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes ARD [Domain]
August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes ARD [Domain] of August 2015
Securitized Debt [Member]
Securitized Debt [Member]
Securitized Debt [Member]
Bank Debt [Member]
Bank Debt [Member]
Bank Debt [Member]
January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member]
January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member]
January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member]
3.849% Secured Notes [Member]
3.849% Secured Notes [Member]
3.849% Secured Notes [Member]
2.250% Senior Notes [Member]
2.250% Senior Notes [Member]
2.250% Senior Notes [Member]
2.381% Secured Notes [Member]
2.381% Secured Notes [Member]
2.381% Secured Notes [Member]
Issuance of debt obligation [Member]
Issuance of debt obligation [Member]
Issuance of debt obligation [Member]
Senior Unsecured 364-Day Revolving Credit Facility [Domain]
Senior Unsecured 364-Day Revolving Credit Facility [Domain]
Senior Unsecured 364-Day Revolving Credit Facility [Domain]
2016 Revolver [Member]
2016 Revolver [Member]
2016 Revolver [Member]
2016 Term Loan A [Member]
2016 Term Loan A [Member]
2016 Term Loan A [Member]
May 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
May 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
May 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
4.875% Senior Notes [Member]
4.875% Senior Notes [Member]
4.875% Senior Notes [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 5 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 5 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 5 [Member]
4.000% Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
4.000% Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
4.000% Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Domain]
2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Domain]
Aggregate principal amount of 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Domain]
3.400% Senior Notes [Member]
3.400% Senior Notes [Member]
3.400% Senior Notes [Member]
3.700% Senior Notes [Member]
3.700% Senior Notes [Member]
3.700% Senior Notes [Member]
September 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
September 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
September 2016 Senior Unsecured Notes [Member]
4.450% Senior Notes [Member]
4.450% Senior Notes [Member]
4.450% Senior Notes [Member]
4.750% Senior Unsecured Notes [Member] [Member]
4.750% Senior Unsecured Notes [Member] [Member]
4.750% Senior Unsecured Notes [Member] [Member]
August 2017 Senior Notes [Member]
August 2017 Senior Notes [Member]
August 2017 Senior Notes [Member]
August 2017 Senior Unsecured 3.200% Notes [Member]
August 2017 Senior Unsecured 3.200% Notes [Member]
August 2017 Senior Unsecured 3.200% Notes [Member]
August 2017 Senior Unsecured 3.650% Notes [Member]
August 2017 Senior Unsecured 3.650% Notes [Member]
August 2017 Senior Unsecured 3.650% Notes [Member]
January 2018 Senior Note [Member]
January 2018 Senior Note [Member]
January 2018 Senior Note [Member]
3.150% Senior Notes [Member]
3.150% Senior Notes [Member]
3.150% Senior Notes [Member]
3.800% Senior Notes [Member]
3.800% Senior Notes [Member]
3.800% Senior Notes [Member]
July 2018 Tower Revenue Notes [Member]
July 2018 Tower Revenue Notes [Member]
July 2018 Tower Revenue Notes [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes 3.720% due 2043 [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes 3.720% due 2043 [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes 3.720% due 2043 [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes 4.241% due 2048 [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes 4.241% due 2048 [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes 4.241% due 2048 [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes Risk Retention Tranche [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes Risk Retention Tranche [Member]
2018 Tower Revenue Notes Risk Retention Tranche [Member]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument [Line Items]
Debt Instrument, Issuance Date
Credit Facility Amendment, Date
Credit Facility Amendment, Date
Line of Credit Facility, Change in Borrowing Capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Change in Borrowing Capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Change in Borrowing Capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity
Debt Instrument, Maturity Date
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Proceeds from Issuance of Debt
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount
Extinguishment of Debt, Amount
Debt Instrument, PPE Collaterized Amount
Debt Instrument, Collateral Amount
Repayments of Debt
Repayments of Debt
Debt and Capital Lease Obligations
Total shares vested
Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Restricted Stock Award, Gross
Fair value on vesting date
Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Gross
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves Type [Axis]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Domain]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Allowance, Credit Loss [Member]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Allowance, Credit Loss [Member]
Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance [Member]
Deferred Tax Valuation Allowance
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Balance at beginning of year
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Amount
Charged to operations
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Additions, Charge to Cost and Expense
Credited to operations
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Deduction
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Addition, Recovery
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Addition, Recovery
Effect of exchange rate changes or Other adjustments
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation Allowances and Reserves, Increase (Decrease) Adjustment
Valuation allowance and reserves, other adjustments
Valuation allowance and reserves, other adjustments
Valuation allowance and reserves, other adjustments
Balance at end of year
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition [Axis]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 3 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 3 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 3 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 6 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 6 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt August 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 6 [Member]
2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.222% due 2042 [Member]
2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.222% due 2042 [Member]
2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.222% due 2042 [Member]
2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.663% due 2045 [Member]
2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.663% due 2045 [Member]
2015 Tower Revenue Notes 3.663% due 2045 [Member]
Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes A-1 [Member]
Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes A-1 [Member]
Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes A-1
Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes A-2 [Member]
Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes A-2 [Member]
Fixed Rate Debt 2009 Securitized Notes A-2 [Member]
Capital Lease Obligations and Other [Member]
Capital Lease Obligations and Other [Member]
Capital Lease Obligations and Other
5.250% Senior Notes [Member]
5.250% Senior Notes [Member]
5.250% Senior Notes [Member]
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 3.40% [Member]
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 3.40% [Member]
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 3.40%
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 4.450% [Member]
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 4.450% [Member]
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 4.450%
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 3.7% [Member]
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 3.7% [Member]
Senior Unsecured 2016 Notes 3.7% [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt 2010 Tower Revenue Notes [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt 2010 Tower Revenue Notes
Range [Axis]
Range [Domain]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Unsecured Debt [Member]
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range Beginning
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range Beginning
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range Beginning
Original issue date
Total debt and other obligations
Percentage Of Debt Instrument Interest Rate Stated
Percentage Of Debt Instrument Interest Rate Stated
Interest rate stated in the contractual debt agreements.
Less: current maturities and short-term debt and other current obligations
Non-current portion of long-term debt and other long-term obligations
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range
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).
Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage
Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage
Availability on revolver
Debt Instrument, Unused Borrowing Capacity, Amount
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Increase (Decrease)
Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Increase (Decrease)
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range Ending
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range Ending
Debt Instrument Maturity Date Range Ending
Business Combinations [Abstract]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table]
Lightower Acquisition [Member]
Lightower Acquisition [Member]
Lightower Acquisition [Member]
FiberNet Acquisition [Member]
FiberNet Acquisition [Member]
FiberNet Acquisition [Member]
Ownership [Axis]
Ownership [Axis]
Ownership [Domain]
Ownership [Domain]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition [Line Items]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block]
Acquisitions
Acquisitions
Acquisitions
Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block]
Foreign Currency Swaps [Abstract]
Foreign Currency Swaps [Abstract]
Operating Segments and Concentrations of Credit Risks
Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block]
Document and Entity Information
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entities [Table]
Entities [Table]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Entity Information [Line Items]
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Document Fiscal Period Focus
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Registrant Name
Entity Central Index Key
Entity Central Index Key
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Current Fiscal Year End Date
Entity Filer Category
Entity Filer Category
Document Type
Document Type
Document Period End Date
Document Period End Date
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Document Fiscal Year Focus
Amendment Flag
Amendment Flag
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Voluntary Filers
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Current Reporting Status
Entity Public Float
Entity Public Float
Entity Small Business
Entity Small Business
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Emerging Growth Company
Entity Shell Company
Entity Shell Company
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block]
Stock-based Compensation
Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block]
Equity [Abstract]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Schedule of Stock by Class [Table]
Tax Treatment of Dividends [Axis]
Tax Treatment of Dividends [Axis]
Tax Treatment of Dividends [Axis]
Tax Treatment of Dividends [Domain]
Tax Treatment of Dividends [Domain]
[Domain] for Tax Treatment of Dividends [Axis]
Ordinary Taxable Dividend Per Share [Member]
Ordinary Taxable Dividend Per Share [Member]
Ordinary Taxable Dividend Per Share [Member]
Qualified Taxable Dividend Per Share [Member]
Qualified Taxable Dividend Per Share [Member]
Qualified Taxable Dividend Per Share [Member]
Long-Term Capital Gain Distribution Per Share [Member]
Long-Term Capital Gain Distribution Per Share [Member]
Long-Term Capital Gain Distribution Per Share [Member]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Class of Stock [Line Items]
Payment Date
Preferred Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Preferred Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Cash Paid
Non-Taxable Distribution
Non-Taxable Distribution
Non-Taxable Distribution
Schedule of Long-Term Debt Instruments
Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt
Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Extinguishment of Debt
Schedule of Extinguishment of Debt [Table Text Block]
Interest Rate Derivatives [Abstract]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Axis]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Hedging Relationship [Domain]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items]
Major Classes of Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Table]
Award Type [Axis]
Equity Award [Domain]
Stock Compensation Plan [Member]
Stock Compensation Plan [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards by Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
Income Tax Authority [Domain]
U.S. Federal [Member]
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
State and Local Jurisdiction [Member]
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Income Taxes (Jurisdictional components of deferred taxes)
Operating Loss Carryforwards [Line Items]
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Operating Loss Carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Deferred Tax Assets, Gross
Valuation allowance, asset
Deferred Tax Assets, Valuation Allowance
Net deferred income tax assets (liabilities)
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
Cash Flow, Supplemental Disclosures [Text Block]
2012 Credit Facility [Member]
2012 Credit Facility [Member]
2012 Credit Facility [Member]
Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche A [Member]
Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche A [Member]
Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche A [Member]
Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche B [Member]
Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche B [Member]
Variable Rate 2012 Term Loans Tranche B [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 2 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 2 [Member]
Fixed Rate Securitized Debt January 2010 Tower Revenue Notes 2 [Member]
Principal Amount
Cash Paid
Repayments of Other Long-term Debt
Gains (losses) on retirement of long-term obligations
Summary of Derivative Instruments [Abstract]
Contractual Terms [Axis]
Contractual Terms [Axis]
Contractual Terms [Axis]
Contractual Terms [Domain]
Contractual Terms [Domain]
[Domain] for Contractual Terms [Axis]
Subject to Capital Lease with Sprint, TMO, or AT&T [Member]
Subject to Capital Lease with Sprint, TMO, or AT&T [Member]
Subject to Capital Lease with Sprint, TMO, or AT&T [Member]
Tower count as a percentage of total towers
Site count as a percentage of total sites
Site count as a percentage of total sites
Income Tax Contingency [Table]
Income Tax Contingency [Table]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Income Tax Contingency [Line Items]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Reconciliation of Unrecognized Tax Benefits, Excluding Amounts Pertaining to Examined Tax Returns [Roll Forward]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Table]
Schedule of Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, by Report Line [Axis]
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs, Report Line [Domain]
Site Rental Cost of Operations [Member]
Site Rental Cost of Operations [Member]
Site rental cost of operations
Network Services and Other Costs of Operations [Member]
Network Services and Other Costs of Operations [Member]
Network services and other costs of operations
Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Allocation of Recognized Period Costs [Line Items]
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost [Line Items]
Stock-based compensation expense
Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense, Net of Tax
Domestic
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Domestic
Foreign
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Foreign
Income (loss) before income taxes
Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Equity Method Investments, Income Taxes, Noncontrolling Interest
Quarterly Financial Information (Unaudited)
Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block]
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Abstract]
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]
Revenue from Contract with Customer [Text Block]
Weighted Average Remaining Term Of Tenant Leases at the Tenant's Option
Weighted Average Remaining Term Of Tenant Leases at the Tenant's Option
Weighted-average remaining term of tenant leases, exclusive of renewals at the tenant's option
Percentage of towers that is on land that has non-cancelable operating leases
Operating Lease, Weighted Average Remaining Lease Term
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, 2019
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Current
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, 2020
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Two Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, 2021
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Three Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, 2022
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Four Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in 2023
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, in Five Years
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable, Thereafter
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable
Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Receivable
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Abstract]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Text Block]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate and Accumulated Depreciation Disclosure [Text Block]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate [Roll Forward]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate [Roll Forward]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
SEC Schedule, 12-28, Real Estate Companies, Investment in Real Estate, Accumulated Depreciation [Roll Forward]
Fair Value Disclosures
Fair Value Disclosures [Text Block]
Top Metro Markets [Domain]
Top Metro Markets [Domain]
Top Metro Markets [Domain]
Information by Financial Statement Line Item [Axis]
Balance Sheet Location [Axis]
Financial Statement Line Item
Balance Sheet Location [Domain]
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Other Intangible Assets [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Member]
Pro forma adjustment type [Axis]
Pro forma adjustment type [Axis]
Pro forma adjustment type [Axis]
Pro forma adjustment type [Domain]
Pro forma adjustment type [Domain]
Pro forma adjustment type [Domain]
Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion [Member]
Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion [Member]
Depreciation, Amortization and Accretion
TDC [Member]
TDC [Member]
TDC
Wilcon Acquisition [Member]
Wilcon Acquisition [Member]
Wilcon Acquisition [Member]
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Depreciation and Amortization
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Depreciation and Amortization
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Depreciation and Amortization
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue
Consideration transferred
Business Combination, Consideration Transferred
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount
Business Acquisition, Goodwill, Expected Tax Deductible Amount
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Other Noncurrent Assets
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual
Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual
Tower Count
Business Combination, Towers Acquired
Business Combination, Towers Acquired
Fiber Miles Acquired
Fiber Miles Acquired
Fiber Miles Acquired
Business Acquisition, Date of Acquisition Agreement
Business Acquisition, Date of Acquisition Agreement
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Deferred Revenue
Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Liabilities, Deferred Revenue
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Income (Loss) Before Income Taxes
Business Combination, Pro Forma Benefit (Provision) for Income Taxes
Business Combination, Pro Forma Benefit (Provision) for Income Taxes
Business Combination, Pro Forma Benefit (Provision) for Income Taxes
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss)
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Business Combination, Pro Forma Stock-Based Compensation, Acquisition and Integration Costs
Business Combination, Pro Forma Stock-Based Compensation, Acquisition and Integration Costs
Business Combination, Pro Forma Stock-Based Compensation, Acquisition and Integration Costs
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Line Items]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table Text Block]
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Expected Timing of Satisfaction [Table Text Block]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative [Table]
Derivative, by Nature [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Axis]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Variable Rate [Domain]
Position [Axis]
Position [Axis]
Position [Domain]
Position [Domain]
Derivative [Line Items]
Derivative [Line Items]
Income Tax Authority [Axis]
Domestic Tax Authority [Member]
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date
Operating Loss Carryforwards, Expiration Date
Foreign Tax Authority [Member]
Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis]
Valuation Allowance by Deferred Tax Asset [Axis]
Property and equipment
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment
Deferred site rental receivable
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Leasing Arrangements
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross
Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Deferred Tax Assets, Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Net operating loss carryforwards
Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards
Deferred ground lease payable
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Deferred Rent
Accrued liabilities
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals, Accrued Liabilities
Other
Deferred Tax Assets, Other
Total deferred income tax assets, net
Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance
Deferred Tax Assets, Net
Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net
Income Taxes
Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block]
Leases
Leases [Text Block]
This disclosure represents the Company’s tenant contracts and operating leases footnote.
Tenant Leases
Schedule of Future Minimum Rental Payments for Operating Leases [Table Text Block]
Operating Leases
Schedule of Rent Expense [Table Text Block]
Other Liabilities [Abstract]
Other Noncurrent Liabilities
Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Table Text Block]
Schedule of Above Market Leases
Schedule of Expected Amortization of Above Market Leases [Table Text Block]
Schedule of expected amortization expense related to above market leases, by year.
Amortization of below-market tenant leases
Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases [Table Text Block]
Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases [Table Text Block]
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Segment Site Rental Cost of Operations
Segment services and other gross margin
Segment network services and other gross margin
Segment network services and other gross margin is defined as segment network services and other revenues less segment network services and other cost of operations, which excludes stock-based compensation expense recorded in consolidated cost of operations.
Capital expenditures
Amortization of prepaid lease purchase price adjustments
Amortization of prepaid lease purchase price adjustments
Represents the amortization of prepaid lease purchase price adjustments for the period presented.
Debt and Other Obligations
Debt and Capital Leases Disclosures [Text Block]
Contractual Maturities - 2019
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months
Contractual Maturities - 2020
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two
Contractual Maturities - 2021
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three
Contractual Maturities - 2022
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four
Contractual Maturities - 2023
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five
Contractual Maturities - Thereafter
Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five
Total Cash Obligations
Long-term Debt, Gross
Unamortized Discounts
Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium) and Debt Issuance Costs, Net
Total Debt and Other Obligations Outstanding
Long-term Debt
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current Federal Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current Foreign
Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit)
Current State
Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit)
Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period
Total current
Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred Federal
Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Deferred Foreign
Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
Total deferred
Benefit (provision) for income taxes
Income Tax Expense (Benefit)
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts [Abstract]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Table]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Valuation and Qualifying Accounts Disclosure [Line Items]
Components of Interest Expense and Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs
Schedule Of Interest Expense And Amortization Of Deferred Financing Costs [Text Block]
Schedule of interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs.
Reconciliation of the Numerators and Denominators of the Basic and Diluted Per Share Computations
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block]
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Subsequent Events [Text Block]
Goodwill and Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Text Block]
Other Current Assets [Member]
Other Current Assets [Member]
Deferred Revenue [Domain]
Deferred Revenue [Domain]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Wireless Infrastructure [Member]
Communications infrastructure [Member]
Communications infrastructure
Revenue Recognition Non-cancelable Lease Term
Revenue Recognition Non-cancelable Lease Term
Revenue Recognition Non-cancelable Lease Term
Impact of adoption of ASU 2016-02
Impact of adoption of ASU 2016-02
Impact of adoption of ASU 2016-02
Antidilutive securities excluded from computation of earnings per share (in shares)
Antidilutive Securities Excluded from Computation of Earnings Per Share, Amount
Estimated useful life, maximum, in years
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Capitalized Labor Costs
Capitalized Labor Costs
Internal labor costs capitalized during the current period
Useful life of site rental contracts and customer relationships (years)
Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life
Revenue Recognition Non-cancelable Term for Non-wireless Contracts Range, Minimum
Revenue Recognition for Fiber Solutions Tenants
Revenue Recognition for Fiber Solutions Tenants
Portion of company site rental costs that are ground lease expenses
Portion of Company Site Rental Costs That Are Ground Lease Expenses
Portion of Company site rental costs That are related to ground lease expenses
Ground Lease Agreement Initial Term
Ground Lease Agreement Term
This disclosure represents the term of the Company’s ground lease agreements
Percentage of tax position that is likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement
Percentage of tax position that is likely of being realized upon ultimate settlement
The threshold percentage of an uncertain tax position at which the Company will recognize a tax position.
Straight-Line Site Rental Revenues
Deferred Revenue
Revenue, Performance Obligation, Description of Payment Terms
Revenue, Performance Obligation, Description of Payment Terms
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount
Revenue, Remaining Performance Obligation, Amount
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized
Contract with Customer, Liability, Revenue Recognized
Dividends, Common Stock, Cash
Dividends Payable, Date Declared
Dividends Payable, Date of Record
Dividends, Preferred Stock, Cash
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Table]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Table]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Table]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Line Items]
Restricted Cash. current
Restricted Cash, Noncurrent
Restricted Cash, Noncurrent
Cash, Cash Equivalents and Restricted Cash
Cash, Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Restricted Cash Equivalents
Interest paid
Interest Paid, Including Capitalized Interest, Operating and Investing Activities
Income taxes paid (refund)
Income Taxes Paid, Net
Increase (Decrease) in accounts payable for purchases of property and equipment
Increase (Decrease) in accounts payable for purchases of property and equipment
Increase (Decrease) in accounts payable for purchases of property and equipment
Purchase of property and equipment under capital leases and installment purchases
Purchase of property and equipment under capital leases and installment purchases
Purchase of property and equipment under capital leases and installment purchases
Preferred Stock Dividends Accrued but not Paid
Dividends Payable
Sale of Stock [Axis]
Sale of Stock [Axis]
Sale of Stock [Domain]
Sale of Stock [Domain]
March 2018 Equity Financing [Member]
March 2018 Equity Financing [Member]
March 2018 Equity Financing [Member]
May 2017 Equity Offering [Member]
May 2017 Equity Offering [Member]
May 2017 Equity Offering [Member]
July 2017 Equity Offering [Member]
July 2017 Equity Offering [Member]
July 2017 Equity Offering [Member]
Minimum [Member]
Maximum [Member]
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value
Preferred Stock, Liquidation Preference, Value
Preferred Stock, Redemption Date
Preferred Stock, Redemption Date
Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued upon Conversion
Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Issued upon Conversion
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock
Proceeds from Issuance of Common Stock
Purchases of common stock, value
Stock Repurchased During Period, Value
At the Market Stock Offering Program, aggregate value of common stock
At the Market Stock Offering Program, aggregate value of common stock
Represents the aggregate value of common stock that the Company may issue and sales shares through its the At the Market Stock Offering Program.
Life to Date Net Proceeds Under ATM
Life to Date Net Proceeds Under ATM
Life to Date Net Proceeds Under ATM
Availability Under ATM
Availability Under ATM
Availability Under ATM
Sale of Stock, Transaction Date
Sale of Stock, Transaction Date
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage
Preferred Stock, Dividend Rate, Percentage
Preferred Stock, Per Share Sales Price
Preferred Stock, Per Share Sales Price
Preferred Stock, Per Share Sales Price
Other Liabilities
Other Liabilities Disclosure [Text Block]
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation [Abstract]
Leased or Operated Under Sprint Agreement [Member]
Leased or Operated Under T-Mobile Agreement [Member]
Leased or Operated Under T-Mobile Agreement [Member]
Leased or Operated Under T-Mobile Agreement [Member]
AT&T lease or sublease in accordance with TMO Agreement [Member]
AT&T lease or sublease in accordance with TMO Agreement [Member]
AT&T lease or sublease in accordance with TMO Agreement [Member]
AT&T Prior to 2025 in accordance with TMO agreement [Member]
AT&T Prior to 2025 [Member]
AT&T Prior to 2025 in accordance with TMO Agreement [Member]
Purchase Option Price
Purchase Option Price
This element relates to the total future purchase option price.
Other Liabilities, by Type [Table]
Deferred Revenue Arrangement, by Type [Table]
customer prepaid rent [Member]
customer prepaid rent [Member]
customer prepaid rent [Member]
deferred ground lease payable [Member]
deferred ground lease payable [Member]
deferred ground lease payable [Member]
Above Market Leases [Member]
Above Market Leases [Member]
deferred credits [Member]
deferred credits [Member]
deferred credits [Member]
asset retirement obligations [Member]
asset retirement obligations [Member]
asset retirement obligations [Member]
Deferred Tax Liability, noncurrent [Member]
Deferred Tax Liability, noncurrent [Member]
Deferred Tax Liability, noncurrent [Member]
Other Liabilities [Member]
Other Liabilities [Member]
Liability Class [Axis]
Liability Class [Axis]
Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain]
Fair Value by Liability Class [Domain]
Year [Axis]
Year [Axis]
Year [Axis]
Year [Domain]
Year [Domain]
[Domain] for Year [Axis]
AML Amortization expense, 2019
Amortization expense, Year 2 [Member]
Amortization expense, Year 2 [Member]
AML Amortization expense, 2020
Amortization expense, Year 3 [Member]
Amortization expense, Year 3 [Member]
AML Amortization expense, 2021
Amortization expense, Year 4 [Member]
Amortization expense, Year 4 [Member]
AML Amortization expense, 2022
Amortization expense, Year 5 [Member]
Amortization expense, Year 5 [Member]
AML Amortization expense, 2023
Amortization expense, 2021 [Member]
Amortization expense, 2021 [Member]
BML Amortization expense, 2019
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2017 [Domain]
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2017 [Domain]
BML Amortization expense, 2020
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2018 [Domain]
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2018 [Domain]
BML Amortization expense, 2021
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2019 [Domain]
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2019 [Member]
BML Amortization expense, 2022
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2020 [Member]
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2020 [Member]
BML Amortization expense, 2023
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2021 [Member]
Amortization of Below-Market Leases, 2021 [Member]
Financial Statement Line Item [Axis]
Financial Statement Line Item [Axis]
Financial Statement Line Item [Axis]
Financial Statement Line Item [Domain]
Financial Statement Line Item [Domain]
[Domain] for Financial Statement Line Item [Axis]
Other Liabilities [Line Items]
Deferred Revenue Arrangement [Line Items]
Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense
Asset Retirement Obligation, Accretion Expense
Other Liabilities, non-current
Asset Retirement Obligation
Asset Retirement Obligation
Estimated Future Undiscounted Cash Flows Expected To Be Paid Relating To Asset Retirement Obligations
Estimated Future Undiscounted Cash Flows Expected To Be Paid Relating To Asset Retirement Obligations
This disclosure represents the estimated future undiscounted cash flows expected to be paid relating to asset retirement obligations
Amortization of Above Market Leases
Amortization of Above Market Leases
Amortization expense for the current year related to the Company’s above-market leases recorded in site rental costs of operations
Expected amortization of above-market leases by year
Expected Above-Market Lease Amortization Expense
Expected amortization expense related to the Company’s above-market leases recorded in site rental costs of operations
Amortization of Below Market Tenant Lease
Amortization of Below Market Lease
Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year
Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year
Expected amortization of below-market tenant leases by year to site rental revenues.
Accrued Payroll and Other Compensation
Accrued Payroll and Other Compensation
Accrued Payroll and Other Compensation
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Axis]
Product and Service [Domain]
Product and Service [Domain]
Income Statement [Abstract]
Income Statement [Abstract]
Net revenues:
Revenues [Abstract]
Site rental
Operating Leases, Income Statement, Lease Revenue
Services and other
Revenue from Contract with Customer, Excluding Assessed Tax
Net Revenues
Revenues
Costs of Operations:
Operating Expenses [Abstract]
Site rental
Direct Costs of Leased and Rented Property or Equipment
Services and other
Cost of Goods and Services Sold
Selling, general and administrative
Selling, General and Administrative Expense
Acquisition and integration costs
Acquisition and integration costs
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.
Total operating expenses
Costs and Expenses
Operating income (loss)
Operating Income (Loss)
Interest expense and amortization of deferred financing costs
Interest income
Investment Income, Interest
Other income (expense)
Other Nonoperating Income (Expense)
Benefit (provision) for income taxes
Dividends, Preferred Stock
Dividends, Preferred Stock
Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders
Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Basic
Net income (loss)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax [Abstract]
Derivative instruments, net of taxes
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cash Flow Hedge, Gain (Loss), after Reclassification and Tax, Parent [Abstract]
Foreign currency translation adjustments
Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax
Total other comprehensive income (loss)
Comprehensive income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders
Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent
Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, per common share:
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract]
Basic (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Basic
Diluted (in dollars per share)
Earnings Per Share, Diluted
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted [Abstract]
Basic (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic
Diluted (in shares)
Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet (Parenthetical) [Abstract]
Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable, current
Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current
6.875% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share (dollars per share)
Preferred Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
6.875% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
Preferred Stock, Shares Authorized
6.875% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock, shares issued
Preferred Stock, Shares Issued
Mandatory redemption and aggregate liquidation value, 6.875% Mandatory Convertible Preferred Stock
Common stock, par value (dollars per share)
Common Stock, Par or Stated Value Per Share
Common stock, shares authorized
Common Stock, Shares Authorized
Common stock, shares issued
Common Stock, Shares, Issued
Common stock, shares outstanding
Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Table]
Nature of Expense [Axis]
Nature of Expense [Axis]
Total Amortization Expense [Domain]
Total Amortization Expense [Domain]
Total Amortization Expense [Domain]
Total Amortization Expense [Member]
Total amortization expense [Member]
Total amortization expense [Member]
Site Rental Costs of Operations [Member]
Site Rental Costs of Operations [Member]
Site Rental Costs of Operations
Other Acquired Goodwill [Domain]
Other Acquired Goodwill [Domain]
Other Acquired Goodwill [Domain]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain]
Site Rental Contracts and Customer Relationships [Member]
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life
Acquired Finite-lived Intangible Assets, Weighted Average Useful Life
Goodwill Period Start
Additions due to acquisitions
Goodwill, Acquired During Period
Goodwill Period End
Finite-lived intangible assets, gross
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross
Accumulated amortization of intangible assets
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization
Finite-lived intangible assets, net
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net
Amortization expense
Amortization of Intangible Assets
Estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets - 2019
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months
Estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets - 2020
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two
Estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets - 2021
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three
Estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets - 2022
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four
Estimated annual amortization expense related to intangible assets - 2023
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five
SEC Schedule, 12-09, Movement in Valuation Allowances and Reserves [Roll Forward]
Restricted Cash
Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Receivables Allowance
Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block]
General, Leases [Policy Text Block]
General, Leases [Policy Text Block]
General, Leases [Policy Text Block]
Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block]
Lessee, Leases [Policy Text Block]
Lease, Policy
Lessor, Leases [Policy Text Block]
Property and Equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Asset Retirement Obligations
Asset Retirement Obligation [Policy Text Block]
Goodwill
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Intangible Assets
Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Intangible Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Deferred Credits
Deferred Credits [Policy Text Block]
Policy for accounting for deferred credits
Deferred Financing Costs
Deferred Charges, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Revenue Recognition
Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Cost of Operations
Cost of Sales, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Acquisition and Integration Costs
Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block]
Stock-Based Compensation
Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block]
Interest Expense and Amortization of Deferred Financing Costs
Interest Expense, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Income Taxes
Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Per Share Information
Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Fair Values
Fair Value of Financial Instruments, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Recent Accounting Pronouncements
New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block]
Basis of Presentation
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block]
Operating income (loss)
Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC stockholders
Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, by Major Property Class [Table]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease, by Major Property Class [Table]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Axis]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Domain]
Greater than 10 Years, Inclusive of Renewals at the Company's Option [Member]
Greater than 10 Years Inclusive of Renewals at the Company's Option [Member]
Greater than 10 Years Inclusive of Renewals at Company's Option
Greater than 20 Years, Inclusive of Renewals at the Company's Option [Member]
Greater than 20 Years Inclusive of Renewals at the Company's Option [Member]
Greater than 20 Years, Inclusive of Renewals at the Company's Option
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Property Subject to or Available for Operating Lease [Line Items]
Percentage of wireless infrastructure that has non-cancelable operating leases
Percentage of towers that is on land that has non-cancelable operating leases
The percentage of towers, office space and equipment that is on land that has non-cancelable operating leases.
Operating Leases, Owned Land Under Tower, Expiration Term
Maximum Lease Term, Years
Maximum current lease expiration term, in years, of operating leases for tower under which the company owns land.
Operating Leases, Leased Land Under Tower, Expiration Term
Operating Leases, Leased Land Under Tower, Expiration Term
Operating Leases, Leased Land Under Tower, Expiration Term
Rental expense from operating leases
Operating Lease And Rental Expense
Rental expense incurred for leased assets.
Contingent rental payments
Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Contingent Rentals
Percentage of site rental gross margin that is derived from towers where the lease for the land has a final expiration date
Percentage of site rental gross margin that is derived from towers where the lease for the land has a final expiration date
Percentage of site rental gross margin that is derived from towers where the lease for the land has a final expiration date.
Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]
Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Abstract]
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Foreign Income Tax Rate Differential, Amount
Tax adjustment related to REIT operations
Tax adjustment related to REIT operations
Total tax adjustment to the consolidated statement of operations related to the Company's REIT operations in the current year
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount
Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Enacted Tax Rate, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount
Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, Change in Deferred Tax Assets Valuation Allowance, Amount
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax
Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Credit Carryforwards, Alternative Minimum Tax
Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Table]
Property, Plant and Equipment by Type [Axis]
Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain]
Land owned in fee and perpetual easements [Member]
Land [Member]
Buildings [Member]
Building [Member]
Information technology assets and other [Member]
Information technology assets and other
Construction in Process [Member]
Construction in Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Gross property and equipment
Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross
Less: accumulated depreciation
Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment
Total property and equipment, net
Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life
Depreciation expense
Depreciation
Capital Leased Assets, Gross
Capital Leased Assets, Gross
Accumulated Depreciation on Capital Lease Assets
Accumulated Depreciation on Capital Lease Assets
Accumulated Depreciation on Capital Lease Assets
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table]
Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Table]
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive Securities [Axis]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Antidilutive Securities, Name [Domain]
Stock Options and Restricted Stock Awards [Member]
Stock Options and Restricted Stock Awards [Member]
Stock Options and Restricted Stock Awards [Member]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted, by Common Class [Line Items]
Weighted-average common shares outstanding:
Basic weighted-average number of common stock outstanding
Effect of assumed dilution from potential common shares relating to stock options and restricted stock awards
Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment
Diluted weighted-average number of common shares outstanding
Net income (loss) attributable to CCIC common stockholders, after deduction of dividends on preferred stock, per common share:
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Common Stock, Dividends, Per Share, Declared
Estimated Fair Values and Carrying Amounts of Assets and Liabilities
Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Grouping [Table Text Block]
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) [Abstract]
Condensed Consolidated Statement of Operations and Comprehensive Income (Loss) (Parenthetical) [Abstract]
Scenario [Axis]