Estimated environmental reserve Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Amount of first costs for environmental remediation costs to be born by reporting entity per acquisition agreement Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Component Amount Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Material Components Description of first costs for environmental remediation costs to be born by reporting entity per acquisition agreement Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Increase (Decrease) for Acquisitions and Divestitures Environmental reserve recognized Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization Accumulated amortization Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Beginning Balance Balance Balance Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment, Beginning Balance Accumulated depreciation Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired, Total Cash paid in connection with acquisitions, net of cash acquired (Note 4) Payments to Acquire Productive Assets, Total Additions to property, equipment and other Amortization of Deferred Hedge Gains Non-cash amortization of terminated interest rate and foreign currency hedging instruments Depreciation Depreciation expense Gain (Loss) on Sale of Other Investments Gain on sale of investment assets Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Deferred gains on settled hedges, net Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Amortization of Intangible Assets Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Reclassified to Earnings, Net Gain to be reclassified to earnings during the year Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Net gain (loss) expected to be reclassified to earnings in next 12 months Probable recoveries from insurers and third parties recorded Recorded Third-Party Environmental Recoveries Receivable Asset Impairment Charges Impairment charges - predominantly related to assets taken out of service Fair value of asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, at Fair Value Purchase price: Fair value of contingent consideration Business Acquisition, Contingent Consideration, Potential Cash Payment Potential contingent consideration Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Purchase Price Purchase price Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Transaction Costs Purchase price: Transaction costs Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Basis for Determining Value Purchase price: Valuation method used for price per common unit Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Number of Shares Purchase price: Equivalent value of PAA common units issued at closing (in common units) Business Acquisition, Equity Interest Issued or Issuable, Value Assigned Purchase price: Equivalent value of PAA common units issued at closing Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Ownership interest (as a percent) Percentage of ownership acquired (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Preexisting Relationship, Gain (Loss) Recognized Net gain on pre-acquisition relationship Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount Purchase price allocation: Goodwill Goodwill Business Acquisition Business Acquisition, Acquiree Business Acquisition [Line Items] Business acquisition Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Business Combinations and Other Purchase of Business Transactions, Policy [Text Block] Acquisitions and Dispositions Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value, Beginning Balance Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Text Block] Cash and Cash Equivalents Interest Paid, Net, Total Cash paid for interest, net of amounts capitalized Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Accounts payable and other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Inventories, Total Inventory Trade accounts receivable and other assets Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Due to Related Parties, Current, Total Due to related parties Variation margin return Increase (Decrease) in Margin Deposits Outstanding Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies Compensation Related Costs, Policy [Text Block] Equity Compensation Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income attributable to Plains Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Percentage of major customer revenue (as a percent) Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk [Table] Inventory Write-down Inventory valuation adjustments Non-cash charges related to the writedown of inventory Cost of Purchased Oil and Gas Crude oil purchases Canadian federal and provincial income tax Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total Current income tax expense Total current tax (benefit)/expense Liabilities, Current, Total Total current liabilities Total current liabilities State income tax Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Advance cash payments received from third parties to mitigate credit risk Customer Advances, Current Customer contracts and relationships Debt, Current, Total Short-term debt Total short-term debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt instrument face value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Debt instrument fair value Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Debt Instrument [Axis] Debt Debt Instrument [Line Items] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Payments of Debt Issuance Costs Debt issuance costs capitalized during the period Canadian federal and provincial income tax, deferred Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Total Deferred income tax (expense)/benefit Deferred income tax benefit Total deferred tax (benefit)/expense Deferred income tax benefit State income tax, deferred Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Assets (Liabilities), Net Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Book accruals in excess of current tax deductions Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities Derivative, Name [Domain] Derivative, Description of Variable Rate Basis Basis for variable interest rate Derivative Asset, Fair Value Fair value of derivative instruments Total derivative assets Assets at fair value Derivative Liability, Fair Value Total derivative liabilities Liabilities at fair value Total derivative liabilities Derivative, Fixed Interest Rate Rate of fixed interest to be received on interest rate swap (as a percent) Derivative, by Nature [Axis] Fair value of derivative instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Derivatives and Risk Management Activities Derivative Instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instruments, Gain (Loss), Net Derivative Not Designated As Hedge Derivative [Line Items] Derivative disclosures Derivative [Table] Derivatives, Policy [Text Block] Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure Noncontrolling Interest Consolidation Policy [Text Block] Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner, Cash Distribution Distributions paid to common unitholders (Note 5) Cash distributions paid to common unitholders Cash distribution declared Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner, Per Unit Amount Early Repayment of Senior Debt Early redemption of senior notes Loss on early redemption of senior notes Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Total Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities Equity in earnings of unconsolidated entities Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Effect of translation adjustment on cash Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Equity compensation expense Expense recognized Share-based Compensation Equity compensation expense Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Compensation Cost Expense and corresponding capital contribution recognized Name of Major Customer [Domain] Entity-Wide Revenue, Major Customer [Line Items] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Reserve for environmental liabilities, long-term Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Noncurrent Reserve for environmental liabilities, short-term Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current Environmental Loss Contingency Disclosure [Text Block] Environmental Remediation Equity Method Investments Investments in unconsolidated entities Equity Method Investee, Name Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Ownership interest (as a percent) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets Finite Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life Estimated Useful Lives (in years) Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Text Block] Foreign Currency Transactions Future Amortization Expense, Year Five 2015 Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2014 Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2011 Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2013 Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2012 Gain on forward currency exchange contracts used to hedge acquisition price, recorded in earnings Gain (Loss)on Foreign Currency Derivatives,Recorded in Earnings, Net Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges, Pretax, Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net deferred gains fom interest rate risk hedging included in AOCI Gain on commodity price risk derivative used to hedge anticipated purchase of crude oil linefill related to acquisition, recorded in earnings Gain (Loss) on Price Risk Derivatives,Net Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment Gain (loss) on sale of various property and equipment Gain (loss) on discontinued cash flow hedge reclassified to earnings during the year Gain on Discontinuation of Cash Flow Hedge Due to Forecasted Transaction Probable of Not Occurring Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt Loss on early redemption of senior notes General and Administrative Expense, Total General and administrative expenses General and administrative expenses General Partners' Capital Account, Total General partner Goodwill by Segment [Axis] Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill disclosures Total of Goodwill by Segment Schedule of Goodwill Gross Profit Gross margin Impaired Assets to be Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, Amount of Impairment Loss Impairment charges - predominantly related to assets taken out of service Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Text Block] Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Incentive Distribution, Distribution Per Year Less: General partner's incentive distribution paid Cash distribution paid to General Partner - Incentive Incentive Distribution, Recipient [Domain] Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner [Axis] Schedule of Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner [Table] Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Joint Venture Partners Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Text Block] Income and Other Taxes Income Taxes Paid, Net Cash paid for income taxes, net of amounts refunded Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Change in restricted cash Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Intangible assets Cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Net Goodwill, Beginning Balance Goodwill Balance at beginning of period Balance at end of period Interest Expense, Total Interest expense (net of capitalized interest of $5 and $6, respectively) Interest expense Interest Rate Swaps Inventory, Net, Total Inventory Inventory, Policy [Text Block] Inventory, Linefill, Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Investment, Policy [Text Block] Equity Method of Accounting Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Proceeds from the issuance of senior notes Issuance of senior notes Noncontrolling interest General partner ownership interest (as a percent) Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest Liabilities Total liabilities Liabilities and Partners' Capital, Total Total liabilities and partners' capital Units Issued Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Issued Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding Common unitholders, units outstanding (in units) Balance (in units) Balance (in units) Limited Partners' Capital Account, Total Common unitholders (149,138,609 and 141,199,175 units outstanding, respectively) Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Credit facility agreement on acquisition Borrowings outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Interest rate at period end Credit facility, interest rate (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Maximum borrowing capacity Credit Facilities Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2011 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2013 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two 2012 Long-term Debt Standard Long-term debt Loss Contingencies by Nature of Contingency [Axis] Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Table] Civil penalty paid, which had been fully reserved in the contingency accrual (in dollars) Loss Contingency Accrual, Carry Value, Payments Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Estimated total costs relating to crude oil releases including the remediation costs, high end of range Loss Contengency, Range of Possible Loss, Maximum Estimated total costs relating to crude oil releases including the remediation costs, low end of range Loss Contengency, Range of Possible Loss, Minimum Initial margin Margin Deposit Assets Maturities of Senior Debt Repayments of senior notes Senior notes repaid Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Beginning Balance Noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership interest of reporting entity (as a percent) Minority Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Noncontrolling interests in subsidiary (as a percent) Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Distribution to noncontrolling interest Minority Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Changes in the noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Minority Interest Disclosure [Text Block] Non-controlling interests associated with the book value of PNG sold to third parties Minority Interest, Increase from Stock Issuance Sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary (Note 10) Changes in the noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Movement in Minority Interest [Rollforward] Minority Interest [Table] Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Axis] Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Total Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Total Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Total Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PLAINS Net income attributable to Plains Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease), Total Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents Inventory, Noncurrent, Total Long-term inventory Liabilities, Noncurrent, Total Total long-term liabilities Nonmonetary Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives Total derivative positions Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives Notional amount of foreign currency cash flow hedge derivatives Notional Amount of Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedge Derivatives Notional amount of interest rate cash flow hedge derivatives Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held Number of outstanding interest rate swaps Costs Offering Costs, Partnership Interests Office property and equipment Operating Income (Loss), Total OPERATING INCOME Operating income/(loss) Revenues, Total Total revenues External Customers Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Organization and Basis of Presentation Other Comprehensive Income, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Total Currency translation adjustment Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive loss Total period activity Other comprehensive income/(loss) Other Comprehensive Income, Reclassification Adjustment on Derivatives Included in Net Income, Net of Tax Reclassification adjustments Other Comprehensive Income, Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Derivatives Arising During Period, Net of Tax Deferred loss on cash flow hedges, net of tax Other Assets, Current Other current assets Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Other investing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Other financing activities Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other income/(expense), net Other expense, net Other Short-term Borrowings Other short-term debt Partners' Capital, Beginning Balance Total partners' capital excluding noncontrolling interests Partners' capital excluding noncontrolling interests Partners' Capital Account, Acquisitions Issuance of common units in connection with the PNGS Acquisition Partners' Capital Account, Deferred Compensation Equity compensation expense Distributions per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Partners' Capital Account, Distribuiton Per Unit of Limited Partner Interest Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Distributions Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital Partners' Capital Account, Sale of Units, Total Issuance of common units Net Proceeds Partners' Capital Account, Units, Period Increase (Decrease), Total Partners' Capital Account, Units, Period Increase (Decrease) Number of common units sold in IPO (in units) Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Public Offering Partners' Capital Notes Disclosure [Text Block] Partners' Capital and Distributions Contributions from general partner Proceeds from Partnership Contribution Payments of Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Distributions to noncontrolling interests Crude oil pipelines and facilities Proceeds from Divestiture of Interest in Consolidated Subsidiaries Cash received for sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary Cash received for sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary (Note 7) Proceeds from Sale Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Units Net proceeds received from sale of common units Net Proceeds Proceeds from Issuance or Sale of Equity Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Proceeds from sales of assets and other investing activities Proceeds from Sale of Property, Plant, and Equipment Proceeds from sale of various property and equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross, Beginning Balance PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Property and equipment, gross Property, Plant and Equipment, Net, Beginning Balance Property and equipment, net Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Text Block] Property and Equipment Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Investment in unconsolidated entities Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Trade Accounts Receivable Receivables, Net, Current, Total Trade accounts receivable and other receivables, net Receivables, Policy [Text Block] Accounts Receivable Related Party Related Party Transaction Related party transaction Related Party Transactions Disclosure Related Party Transactions Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party Repayments of Assumed Debt Repayment of PNGS debt Repayments of Senior Debt Repayments of senior notes Total of Segments Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Restricted cash Revenue Recognition, Policy [Text Block] Revenue Recognition Equity Method Investments [Text Block] Investments in entities accounted for under the equity method of accounting Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Text Block] Components of intangible assets that have finite lives Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] Components of inventory, linefill, base gas and long term inventory Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area [Text Block] Revenues attributable to geographical areas Schedule of Entity-Wide Disclosure on Geographic Areas, Long-Lived Assets in Individual Foreign Countries by Country [Text Block] Long-lived assets attributable to geographical areas Schedule of Goodwill [Text Block] Changes in goodwill Components of property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Text Block] Schedule of Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Events Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Operating Segments Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Text Block] Segment financial data Segment Reporting Information, Intersegment Revenue Intersegment Segment Reporting Information, Revenue Total revenues of reportable segments Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Operating segment information Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment Segment Reporting Information, Profit (Loss) Segment profit Senior Notes, Noncurrent Senior notes Total Other acquisitions Unit issuance (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Converted in Period Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Cancelled or forfeited (in units) Unit forfeitures (in units) Unit forfeitures Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Cancelled or forfeited (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period Granted (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Units Outstanding (in units) Outstanding at beginning of period (in units) Outstanding at end of period (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per unit) Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per unit) Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Total Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Additional expense expected to be recognized over life of outstanding awards related to remaining unrecognized fair value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested (in units) LTIP unit settled vestings Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vested in Period, Total Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Vested (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights Award vesting rights (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Authorized grants (in units) Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Type and Plan Name [Axis] LTIP cash settled vestings Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Cash Flow Effect, Cash Used to Settle Awards Equity Compensation Plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement, by Share-based Payment Award Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Site Contingency, Nature of Contingency [Domain] Site Contingency by Nature [Axis] Site Contingency [Line Items] Environmental remediation disclosures Site Contingency [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Related party ownership of general partner interest (as a percent) Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Changes made to holdings in limited partner units of PNG Schedule of Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Description [Table Text Block] Book value of pipeline contributed Contribution of Property Assets, Current, Total Total current assets Total current assets Eliminations General Partner Common Units Construction in progress Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] Components of property, plant and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Type Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Maximum Estimated useful lives, maximum (years) Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life, Minimum Estimated useful lives, minimum (years) Assets, Total. Total assets General Partners' Capital Account, Distribution Amount Cash distribution paid to General Partner - 2% Less: General partner 2% ownership Other Liabilities, Current, Total Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Noncurrent Other long-term liabilities and deferred credits Other long-term liabilities Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Equity Compensation Plans Total Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Statement [Table] Statement, Scenario [Axis] Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments, Net of Dividends or Distributions, Total Equity earnings in unconsolidated subsidiaries, net of distributions Goodwill, Allocation Adjustment Purchase price accounting adjustments Statement Statement [Line Items] Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Roll forward of Level 3 Net Liability Capital Unit, Common Units Capital Unit, Class B [Member] Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Quarterly Financial Data Long-term debt Short-term debt Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Net gain (loss) deferred in AOCI Receivables from Brokers-Dealers and Clearing Organizations Broker receivable resulting from cash collateral deposited Other Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Long-term debt under credit facilities and other Other Assets, Noncurrent, Total Other, net Total Other Assets, Net Goodwill [Roll Forward] Changes in goodwill Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Goodwill, Acquired During Period Southern Pines acquisition Goodwill, Translation and Purchase Accounting Adjustments Schedule of Equity Method Investments Schedule of Equity Method Investment, Equity Method Investee, Name Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Equity Method of Accounting Parent Schedule of Property, Plant and Equipment Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent [Text Block] Components of other assets, net of accumulated amortization Property, Plant and Equipment by Type Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property, Plant and Equipment. Property, plant and equipment in excess of tax values Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Income tax expense Total income tax (benefit)/expense Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Gain (loss) on revaluation of foreign currency transactions and monetary assets and liabilities Interest Costs Incurred Interest Costs, Capitalized During Period Interest expense, capitalized interest Capitalized interest Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), Unrealized (Gain)/loss on foreign currency revaluation Gain (loss) on revaluation of foreign currency transactions and monetary assets and liabilities Gain (Loss) on Sale of Investments, Total Gain on sale of investment assets Cumulative Effect of Change in Accounting Principle Presented on Income Statement, Net of Tax Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Trade accounts receivable and other Trade accounts receivable and other Translation Adjustments Derivative Instruments Net Income (Loss) Allocated to General Partners GENERAL PARTNER Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners LIMITED PARTNERS Net income available to limited partners Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Total BASIC NET INCOME PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT (in dollars per unit) Basic net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Minimum Estimated Useful Lives, minimum (in years) Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Useful Life, Maximum Estimated Useful Lives, maximum (in years) Stock Issued During Period, Value, Restricted Stock Award, Gross Issuance of common units under LTIP Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation Units issued in connection with the settlement of vested awards, net of tax withholding (in units) Commitments and Contingencies Policy [Text Block] Legal Costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Debt issue costs Statement, Business Segments Totals, geographical areas Statement Geographical Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements Schedule of Condensed Financial Statements [Text Block] Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Costs and Expenses, Total Total costs and expenses Combined Guarantor Subsidiaries Combined Non-Guarantor Subsidiaries Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested [Roll Forward] Outstanding (in units) Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Consideration transferred for Rainbow acquisition Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Remeasurement Gain or Loss Net gain on pre-acquisition relationship Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Total NET INCOME Net income Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity, Liabilities Incurred Purchase price: Assumption of debt (at estimated fair value) Major Customers [Axis] Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Total Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital [Roll Forward] Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital Statement, Partner Capital Components [Axis] Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Less: Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sale of Units, Total Issuance of common units (in units) Partner Capital Components [Domain] Noncontrolling Interests Partners' Capital Excluding Noncontrolling Interests Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions Changes made to holdings in limited partner units of PNG Consolidation, Less Than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects Of Changes, Net [Text Block] Commitments and Contingencies. COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 13) Leases of Lessor Disclosure [Text Block] Future non-cancelable commitments relating to operating and capital leases Partners' Capital Account, Units, Acquisitions Issuance of common units in connection with the PNGS Acquisition (in units) Adjustments, Noncash Items, to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Other Other Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted DILUTED NET INCOME PER LIMITED PARTNER UNIT (in dollars per unit) Diluted net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic BASIC WEIGHTED AVERAGE UNITS OUTSTANDING (in units) Basic weighted average number of limited partner units outstanding (in units) Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Senior notes, unamortized discount Unamortized premium/(discount), net Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Diluted DILUTED WEIGHTED AVERAGE UNITS OUTSTANDING (in units) Diluted weighted average number of limited partner units outstanding (in units) Weighted Average Number Diluted Limited Partnership Units Outstanding Adjustment Weighted average LTIP units (in units) Accrued Liabilities Accrued liability Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Total period activity Other comprehensive income/(loss) attributable to Plains Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Parent Business Combination, Step Acquisition, Equity Interest in Acquiree, Percentage Percent ownership in PAA/Vulcan prior to acquisition of additional interest (as a percent) Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current and Noncurrent Accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Cash distributions per common unit (in dollars per unit) Cash distributions per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Partners' Capital, Other Other Investment Owned, at Cost Acquisition investment at cost Derivatives, Fair Value, by Balance Sheet Location Balance Sheet Location Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Derivatives disclosures Derivative Asset Designated as Hedging Instrument, Fair Value Derivative assets designated as hedging instruments Derivative Asset Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Fair Value Derivative assets not designated as hedging instruments Derivative Liability Not Designated as Hedging Instrument, Fair Value Derivative liabilities not designated as hedging instruments Derivative Liability Designated as Hedging Instrument, Fair Value Derivative liabilities designated as hedging instruments Interest Rate Contracts Foreign exchange contracts Commodity Derivatives, Fair Value, by Derivative Instrument Risk Interest expense Income Statement and Other Comprehensive Income Location Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) in Statement of Financial Performance [Text Block] Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Income Statement Location Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Derivative Instrument Risk Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) by Hedging Relationship, by Income Statement Location, by Derivative Instrument Risk Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships - Ineffective Portion Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Derivatives in Cash Flow Hedging Relationships - AOCI Reclassified Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Derivative Contract Type Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Text Block] Summary of derivative assets and liabilities on consolidated balance sheet Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Asset Impairment Charges [Abstract] Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligations CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Cash and Cash Equivalents Environmental Expense and Liabilities [Abstract] Environmental Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Current tax (benefit)/expense: CURRENT LIABILITIES Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Abstract] Deferred tax (benefit)/expense: Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Abstract] Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years Foreign Currency Derivatives [Abstract] Currency Exchange Rate Risk Hedging: Foreign Currency Transaction [Abstract] Foreign Currency Transactions CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Interest Rate Derivatives [Abstract] Interest Rate Risk Hedging Inventory by category Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities [Abstract] CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES OTHER INCOME/(EXPENSE) Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] LONG-TERM LIABILITIES Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] REVENUES Revenues [Abstract] PARTNERS' CAPITAL Partners' Capital [Abstract] Price Risk Derivatives [Abstract] Commodity Price Risk Hedging: Receivables, Net, Current [Abstract] Accounts Receivable Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract] Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to Plains Short-term debt: Short-term Borrowings [Abstract] CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF PARTNERS' CAPITAL CURRENT ASSETS Assets, Current [Abstract] PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] Other Assets, Net Segment Reporting Information, Revenue [Abstract] Revenues: Assets [Abstract] ASSETS Long-term Debt, by Maturity [Abstract] Maturities Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Abstract] Contingencies Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract] Long-term debt: Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Deferred tax assets: Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Deferred tax liabilities: COSTS AND EXPENSES Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per unit Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Effect of dilutive securities: Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities [Abstract] Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by operating activities: Reconciliation of net income to net cash provided by/(used in) operating activities: Linefill and Base Gas Crude oil, refined products, and LPG linefill and base gas in pipelines and natural gas storage facilities that are owned by the entity. The linefill and base gas are intended for long-term use. Linefill and base gas LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL Liabilities and Partners Capital [Abstract] Partners' Capital Account, Unit-based Compensation, Long-term Incentive Plans The value of common units issued during the period as a result of Long-term Incentive Plans (LTIP). Issuance of common units under Long Term Incentive Plans ("LTIP") Partners' Capital Account, Unit-based Compensation, Class B Units The expense borne by the reporting entity (the partnership) during the period relating to the equity compensation plan of the General Partner of the partnership. The amount represents a capital contribution from the General Partner to the partnership, relating to units of the partnership's General Partner awarded to officers of the partnership for services rendered to the partnership. Class B Units of Plains AAP, L.P. (Note 10) Partners' Capital Account, Units Issued, Unit-based Compensation, Long-term Incentive Plans The number of common units issued during the period as a result of Long-term Incentive Plans (LTIP). Issuance of common units under Long Term Incentive Plans ("LTIP") (in units) Interest Income and Other Income (Expense), Net Interest income and income not otherwise defined. Interest income and other income/(expense), net Gain (Loss) on Sale of Linefill Gain on sale of linefill The difference between the sale price and book value of linefill that was sold during the reporting period. Gain on sale of linefill Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short-term Letter of Credit and Hedged Inventory Facility The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on the Short-term Letter of Credit and Hedged Inventory Facility. Net borrowings/(repayments) on PAA's hedged inventory facility Net borrowings on PAA's hedged inventory facility Crude Oil Refined Products and LPG Sales and Related Revenues Buy Sell Transactions The revenues related to the buy/sell transactions of crude oil, refined products and LPG. Crude oil, refined products and LPG sales and related revenues, buy/sell transactions Crude Oil Refined Products and LPG Purchases and Related Costs Buy Sell Transactions The purchases related to the buy/sell transactions of crude oil, refined products and LPG. Crude oil, refined products and LPG purchases and related costs, buy/sell transactions CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Table] Attributes of the changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Axis] Represents subset of the changes in the components of accumulated other comprehensive income (loss). Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, Components [Domain] Components of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income include: deferred gains (losses) on qualifying hedges, unrealized holding gains (losses) on available-for-sale securities, minimum pension liability, and cumulative translation adjustment. Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Line Items] Changes in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes and Minority Interest Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes and Minority Interest Sum of operating profit and nonoperating income (expense) before income taxes, extraordinary items, cumulative effects of changes in accounting principles, and noncontrolling interest. Includes income (loss) from equity method investments. INCOME BEFORE TAX Income before tax Purchases and Related Costs. Costs related to the purchase of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from gathering and marketing activities. Purchases and related costs Document and Entity Information Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interests Total of Partners' Capital (deficit) items including portions attributable to both the parent and noncontrolling interests (previously referred to as minority interest), if any. The entity including portions attributable to the parent and noncontrolling interests is sometimes referred to as the economic entity. This excludes temporary equity and is sometimes called permanent equity. Total partners' capital Balance Balance Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Unitholders, Net of Issuance Costs Net proceeds from the issuance of common units (Note 10) The net cash inflow during the period from the issuance of common limited partners units, net of issuance costs. Net proceeds from the issuance of common units Inventory, Linefill and Base Gas and Long-term Inventory [Text Block] Inventory, Linefill, Base Gas and Long-term Inventory The complete disclosure related to inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the basis of stating inventory, linefill, and base gas and long-term inventory, the method of determining inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory cost, the major classes of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory, and the nature of the cost elements included in inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory. If inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory is stated above cost, accrued net losses on firm purchase commitments for inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory and losses resulting from valuing inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory at the lower-of-cost-or-market may also be included. Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit [Text Block] Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit The complete disclosure pertaining to an entity's net income per limited partner unit. Other Represents the component of other comprehensive income (loss) that is not specifically defined elsewhere in the taxonomy. Other Comprehensive Income, Partnership's Portion of Equity Investee Proportionate share of our unconsolidated entities' other comprehensive loss The partnership's proportionate share of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income for an equity investee. Net gain on purchase of remaining 50% interest in PAA/Vulcan Gain on Conversions of Equity Method Investment Recognized gain on the adjustment of an equity method investment to fair value upon acquisition of the remaining indirect interest. The entity is subsequently accounted for on a consolidated basis. Net cash received/(paid) for sales and purchases of linefill and base gas Cash Received (Paid) for Linefill, Net The net cash inflow or outflow to acquire linefill in pipelines. Acquisitions and Dispositions Disclosure [Text Block] Acquisitions and Dispositions Description of a business combination (or series of individually immaterial business combinations) completed during the period, including background, timing, and recognized assets and liabilities. This element may be used as a single block of text to encapsulate the entire disclosure (including data and tables) regarding business combinations, including leverage buyout transactions (as applicable). Also includes the facts and circumstances leading to the completed or expected disposal, manner and timing of disposal, the gain or loss recognized in the income statement and the income statement caption that includes that gain or loss, amounts of revenues and pretax profit or loss reported in discontinued operations, the segment in which the disposal group was reported, and the classification (whether sold or classified as held for sale) and carrying value of the assets and liabilities comprising the disposal group. Includes all disposal groups, including those classified as components of the entity (discontinued operations). Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Cash Flow Impact The cash flow impact of the component of income tax expense for the period representing the net change in the entity's deferred tax assets and liabilities. Deferred income tax (benefit)/expense Canadian Withholding Tax Distribution on Behalf of Shareholders Other The change in partners' capital during the period due to Canadian withholding tax distribution on behalf of shareholders. Supply & Logistics segment revenues Supply and Logistics Segment Revenues. Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Transportation segment revenues Transportation Segment Revenues. Revenue from the transportation of crude oil and refined products during the period, primarily on pipelines and trucks. Facilities segment revenues Facilities Segment Revenues. Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas during the period. Field operating costs Field Operating Costs alternate Various field operating expenses, including fuel and power costs, telecommunications, payroll and benefit costs, (including equity compensation expense) for truck drivers and field personnel, maintenance and integrity management costs, regulatory compliance, environmental remediation, insurance, vehicle leases, and property taxes. Field operating costs Supply & Logistics segment revenues Sales and Related Revenues Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Transportation segment revenues Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking and Related Revenues Revenue from the transportation of crude oil and refined products, primarily on pipelines and trucks, and related activities during the period. Facilities segment revenues Storage Terminalling Processing and Related Revenues Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas during the period. Organization and Basis of Presentation Recent Accounting Pronouncements Trade Accounts Receivable Acquisitions Inventory, Linefill, Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Debt Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Partners' Capital and Distributions Equity Compensation Plans. Derivatives and Risk Management Activities Income Taxes Commitments and Contingencies Operating Segments Supplemental Condensed Consolidating Financial Information Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Related Party Transactions Environmental Remediation Quarterly Financial Data Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income [Roll Forward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Increase (Decrease) in Short-term Inventories Inventory The net change during the reporting period in the aggregate value of inventory classified as short-term held by the reporting entity, associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. Increase (Decrease) in Long-term Inventories Long-term inventory The net change during the reporting period in the aggregate value of inventory classified as long-term held by the reporting entity, associated with underlying transactions that are classified as operating activities. Subsequent Events Net repayments on PAA's revolving credit facility The net cash inflow (outflow) due to proceeds from additional borrowings and repayments on revolving credit facilities. Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Revolving Credit Facilities Net borrowings/(repayments) on PAA's revolving credit facility Describes the entity's accounting policies for field operating costs, and general and administrative expenses. Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses [Policy Text Block] Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses Asset Retirement Obligations This element describes the entity's accounting policy for asset retirement obligations. Asset Retirement Obligations Policy Other Assets, Net This element describes the entity's accounting policy for other assets, which are otherwise not defined in the taxonomy. Other Assets [Policy Text Block] Environmental Liabilities [Policy Text Block] Environmental Matters This element describes the entity's accounting policy for environmental liabilities. Finite-lived Intangible Assets Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years Discloses the estimated aggregate amortization expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years. Schedule of Calculation of Numerator and Denominator in Earnings Per Share [Table Text Block] Computation of basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit A reconciliation of the numerators and the denominators of the basic and diluted per-share (or per-unit) computations for income from continuing operations, including the effect that has been given to preferred dividends. Storage and terminal facilities Long lived depreciable assets used primarily for the storage and terminalling of crude oil, refined products and liquefied petroleum gas, and other natural gas-related petroleum products. Land and other This element represents the real estate assets held for productive use and related nondepreciable assets. Frontier Pipeline Company The investment in Frontier Pipeline Company (Frontier), a crude oil pipeline company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Settoon Towing, LLC The investment in Settoon Towing, LLC (Settoon Towing), a barge transportation services company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Butte Pipe Line Company The investment in Butte Pipe Line Company (Butte), a crude oil pipeline company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Maximum Maturity of Cash Equivalent Investments Period Maximum original maturity period of cash equivalent investments (in months) The maximum original maturity period of investments which are considered as cash equivalents. Liabilities for Outstanding Checks Outstanding checks that were reclassified from cash and cash equivalents to be included in accounts payable The liability as of the balance sheet date for checks that have been issued but have not cleared. Accounts Receivable, Disclosure of Maximum Age of Balances Past Scheduled Invoice Date Net accounts receivable, maximum age of balances past their scheduled invoice date (in days) The maximum number of days past their scheduled invoice date for substantially all of the accounts receivable. Rainbow This element represents information pertaining to the acquisition of Rainbow Pipe Line Company. PNGS This element represents information pertaining to PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS), a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Noncurrent Other Carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of noncurrent assets which have not been itemized or categorized in the footnotes to the financial statements and are a component of Other Assets, Noncurrent. Noncurrent assets are expected to be realized or consumed after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Accumulated amortization Accumulated Amortization of Other Assets, Noncurrent Carrying amount of accumulated amortization of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Amortization Expense on Other Assets, Noncurrent Amortization expense related to other assets (including finite-lived intangible assets) Amount of amortization expense incurred during the period for items included in other assets, noncurrent. May include amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets and amortization expense of capitalized debt issuance costs. Emission reduction credits Intangible assets representing the value of the entity's capitalized costs related to acquiring emission credits. Property tax abatement Intangible asset representing the value of the entity's property tax abatement. Other Assets, Noncurrent, Gross Other assets, gross Gross 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). Numerator for basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit: Basic net income per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Numerator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Abstract] Net income (loss) after incentive distribution is paid to the limited partnership general partner. Net Income (Loss) after Incentive Distribution Subtotal Adjustment for Two Class Method for MLP Adjustment in accordance with application of the two-class method for MLPs This element represents the adjustment made in accordance with the application of two-class method for Master Limited Partnership (MLPs). Net income available to limited partners in accordance with the application of the two-class method for MLPs Net Income (Loss) Available to Limited Partners after Adjustment for Two Class Method for MLP This element represents the net income (loss) available to limited partners after making an adjustment in accordance with the application of two-class method for Master Limited Partnership (MLPs). Denominator: Denominator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Abstract] General Partner Ownership Interest in Subsidiary General partner ownership interest (as a percent) The percentage of general partner ownership in the subsidiary by the parent. General Partner Interest in PNG (as a percent) Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Disclosure of the quarterly financial data in the annual financial statements as a single block of text. The disclosure includes a tabular presentation of 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. Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Foreign Currency Exchange Contracts [Table Text Block] Open foreign currency exchange derivatives Disclosure of notional amounts of outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts. Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Text Block] Financial assets and liabilities within the fair value hierarchy accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis This element represents the disclosure related to assets and liabilities, including [financial] instruments measured at fair value that are classified in stockholders' equity, if any, that are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. The disclosures contemplated herein include the fair value measurements at the reporting date by the level within the fair value hierarchy in which the fair value measurements in their entirety fall, segregating fair value measurements using quoted prices in active markets for identical assets (Level 1), significant other observable inputs (Level 2), and significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Net long crude oil derivative position Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge risk associated with crude oil activities. Net short spread position hedging anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases. Net short spread position of calendar spread call options Represents the derivative instruments in a net short spread position of calendar spread call options. WTS/WTI crude oil basis swaps Represents the derivative instruments consisting of WTS/WTI crude oil basis swaps, which hedge anticipated sales of crude oil (WTI). Crude oil net short position Represents the derivative instruments in a net short position for crude oil futures and swaps. Crude oil long put option position Represents the derivative instruments in a long put option position. Crude oil long call option position Represents the derivative instruments in a long call option position. Long natural gas futures position for anticipated base gas purchases Represents derivative instruments consisting of long natural gas futures contracts. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 1.01 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2011 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 1.01 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2011. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 1.01 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2012 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 1.01 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2012. Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 1.00 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2013 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts at the rate of CAD 1.00 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2013. Nonmonetary Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives Average Per Day Net derivative positions per day (in barrels) Aggregate notional volume of commodity price risk derivatives per day, expressed in non-monetary units. Nonmonetary Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives Hedged to Manage the Risk of not Utilizing Derivative hedges to manage the risk of not utilizing storage capacity (in barrels) Aggregate notional volume of commodity price risk derivatives to hedge the risk of not utilizing storage capacity. Crude oil derivative for anticipated sale of foreign crude (in barrels) Crude Oil Derivative for Anticipated Sale of Foreign Crude Volume Aggregate notional volume of commodity price risk derivatives utilized to hedge the anticipated sale of foreign crude inventory. Additional Average Spread over LIBOR Percentage Additional average spread over LIBOR (as a percent) This element represents the percentage of additional interest rate over LIBOR for computation of interest rate swap. Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedges Pre-tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net deferred gains from currency risk rate hedging included in AOCI This element represents the gain or loss on open and settled foreign currency cash flow hedges, which are included in AOCI. Supply and Logistics segment revenues Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Transportation segment revenues Revenue from the transportation of crude oil and refined products during the period, primarily on pipelines and trucks. Facilities segment revenues Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas during the period. Purchases and related costs Costs related to the purchase of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from gathering and marketing activities. Other current assets 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). Other long-term assets 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). Other current liabilities Current liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Current liabilities are expected to be paid within one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Other long-term liabilities Noncurrent liabilities not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Noncurrent liabilities are expected to be paid after one year (or the normal operating cycle, if longer). Recurring Fair Value Measures 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. Fair Value Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Financial Statement Captions [Line Items] Derivative Fair Value of Derivative, Net Asset Liability Net asset/(liability) at fair value This element represents a certain statement of financial position asset (liability) caption which represents a class of assets (liabilities), or which may include an individual asset (liability), measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Unrealized gains/(losses): Unrealized Gains and (Losses) Relating to Level 3 Derivatives [Abstract] Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Derivative Net Asset (Liability) Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Period Increase (Decrease) Change in unrealized gains/(losses) included in earnings relating to level 3 derivatives still held at the end of the periods This item represents the amount of the total change in unrealized (holding) gains or losses for the period which are included in the statement of income (or changes in net assets).Such unrealized (holding) gains or losses relate to those liabilities still held at the reporting date for which fair value is measured on a recurring basis using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3). Transportation The segment of the entity pertaining to the transportation of crude oil and refined products. Facilities The segment of the entity pertaining to the storing, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas. Supply and Logistics The segment of the entity pertaining to the sale of crude oil, refined products, LPG and natural gas storage. Capital Expenditure Capital expenditures Expenditures made during the period to acquire and/or expand fixed assets.Capital expenditures made to expand the existing earnings capacity of our assets are considered expansion capital expenditures, not maintenance capital. Maintenance capital Maintenance Capital Capital expenditures made during the period for the replacement of partially or fully depreciated assets in order to maintain the service capability, level of production, and/or functionality of the company's existing assets. Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Table text Block] Disclosure of the condensed consolidating balance sheets, normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. If condensed consolidating financial statements are being presented, other domain members (in addition to parent) such as guarantor subsidiaries, non-guarantor subsidiaries, and the consolidation eliminations, will be included in order that the respective monetary amounts for each of the domains will aggregate to the respective amounts on the consolidated financial statements. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Noncash Items Adjustments to Reconcile Net Income (Loss) to Cash Provided by Used in Operating Activities Other For the Condensed Consolidating Financial Information disclosures, this element represents the transactions that do not result in cash inflows or outflows during the period in which they occur, but affect net income and thus, are removed when calculating net cash flow from operating activities using the indirect cash flow method. This element is used when a more specific and appropriate element is not there. Other Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet [Line Items] 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. Condensed Consolidating Balance Sheet Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations 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. Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations [Line Items] Net operating revenues Net Operating Revenue This element represents the net operating revenue earned during the period, which is calculated as total revenues less purchases and related costs. Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows 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. Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows [Line Items] Crude oil, LPG and refined products inventory hedged (in barrels) Derivative, Nonmonetary, Notional Amount Long-Lived assets Long-lived assets other than financial instruments, long-term customer relationships of a financial institution, mortgage and other servicing rights, deferred policy acquisition costs, and deferred tax assets. Long-Lived Assets Revenues and long lived assets attributable to geographic areas 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. Revenues from External Customers and Long Lived Assets [Line Items] Inventory [Table] Schedule disclosing the various components of inventory. Crude oil The inventory subcategory of crude oil. LPG The inventory subcategory of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG). Refined products The inventory subcategory of refined products. Natural gas The inventory subcategory of natural gas. Parts and supplies The inventory subcategory of parts and supplies. Inventory disclosures 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. Inventory [Line Items] Proceeds from Sale of Linefill Proceeds from sale of pipeline linefill This element represents the cash inflow that is associated with sale of linefill during the reporting period. Inventory, Current and Noncurrent Inventory (value in dollars) This element represents the aggregate of current and non-current inventory. Total Inventory, Volumes in Barrels Inventory (volumes in barrels) The volumes of inventory as of the balance sheet date, as denoted in barrels. Inventory, Volumes in Cubic Feet Inventory (volumes in cubic feet) The volumes of inventory as of the balance sheet date, as denoted in cubic feet. Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Inventory, weighted average price per unit (in dollars per unit) The weighted-average price per unit of inventory. United States Canada Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Attributes of the schedule of revenues from external customers and long-lived assets. Purchases and Related Costs Purchases and Related Costs [Policy Text Block] Describes the entity's accounting policies for recognition of costs in the period which correspond to purchases and related costs presented in the statement of operations. Vulcan Energy Corporation This element represents information pertaining to Vulcan Energy Corporation and its affiliate, a related party of Plains All American Pipeline LP. Costs Reimbursed to General Partner Costs reimbursed to general partner Cost reimbursements made to the general partner of the entity. Schedule of Fair Value of Assets Liabilities Business Acquisition [Text Block] Business acquisition fair value of assets and liabilities allocation - Southern Pines Acquisition Disclosure of 100% of the fair values of the assets and liabilities of the acquiree in a business combination. 2009 Acquisitions This element represents information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2009. Other 2009 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to other acquisitions made in 2009. Capline And associated Tankage Represents the information pertaining to Capline and associated Tankage. 2008 Acquisitions This element represents information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2008. Other 2008 Acquisitions This element represents information pertaining to other acquisitions made in 2008. 2007 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2007. Commercial refined products supply and marketing business This element represents information pertaining to supply and marketing business of commercial refined products. Trucking business This element represents information pertaining to trucking business. Bumstead LPG storage facility This element represents information pertaining to Bumstead LPG storage Facility. Tirzah LPG storage facility and other assets This element represents information pertaining to Tirzah LPG Storage Facility and other assets. Number of Installments to Pay Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration This element represents the number of installments over which contingent consideration for acquisition is paid. Number of installments for payment of contingent purchase consideration Business Acquisition Contingent Consideration Potential Cash Payment in Each Installment The amount of each installment of potential cash payments that could result from the contingent consideration arrangement. Business acquisition contingent consideration potential cash payable in each installment Number of Natural Gas Storage Facilities The number of natural gas storage facilities owned. Number of natural gas storage facilities owned and operated Aggregate Working Gas Storage Capacity The aggregate working gas storage capacity of natural gas facilities owned, as expressed in billion cubic feet (Bcf). Aggregate working gas storage capacity in facilities owned by PNGS (in Bcf) Aggregate Peak Injection Capacity The aggregate peak injection capacity of the natural gas facilities owned, expressed in billions of cubic feet per day. Aggregate peak injection capacity of facilities owned by PNGS (in Bcf per day) Aggregate Peak Withdrawal Capacity Per Day The aggregate peak withdrawal capacity of the natural gas facilities owned, expressed in billions of cubic feet per day. Aggregate peak withdrawal capacity (in Bcf per day) Storage Capacity under Lease The aggregate natural gas storage capacity under lease from third parties, expressed in billion cubic feet. Storage capacity under lease from third parties by PNGS (in Bcf) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price, Portion Paid at Closing The portion of the total purchase price of a business acquisition that was paid at closing. Purchase price: Paid at closing Discount Rate Used for Calculating Present Value of Deferred Contingent Cash Consideration The discount rate used for calculating the present value of the deferred contingent cash consideration in a business acquisition. Discount rate used for calculating present value of deferred contingent cash consideration (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Mainline Crude Oil Pipelines Acquired Mainline crude oil pipelines acquired (in miles) The mainline crude oil pipelines acquired in a business combination, expressed in miles of pipeline. Business Acquisition, Gathering Pipelines Acquired Gathering pipelines acquired (in miles) The gathering pipelines acquired in a business combination, expressed in miles of pipeline. Business Acquisition, Tankage Acquired Tankage acquired (in barrels) The tankage acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels. Business Acquisition, Crude Oil Linefill Acquired Crude oil linefill acquired (in barrels) The crude oil linefill acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels. Business Acquisition, System Throughput Capacity Acquired The throughput capacity of the system acquired in a business acquisition, expressed in barrels per day. Throughput capacity of linefill system acquired (in barrels per day) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Crude Oil Pipeline Linefill Purchase Price Allocation: Pipeline linefill in owned assets The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to crude oil pipeline linefill. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Future Income Tax Liability Purchase price allocation: Future income tax liability The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to future income tax liability. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Environmental Liabilities Purchase price allocation: Associated with environmental liabilities The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to environmental liabilities. Dispositions [Abstract] Dispositions Related Party Transaction, Annual Administrative Services Fee Annual fee received by general partner from related party for providing administrative services The annual fee to be received by the entity's general partner from a related party for administrative services provided by the general partner. Foreign currency translation adjustments Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Reflects net changes to the recorded value of goodwill for foreign currency translation adjustments needed to revise the carrying amount of goodwill to fair value. General Partner Ownership Interest in Net Income (Loss) after Incentive Distribution Less: General partner 2% ownership The 2% General Partner's allocation of the Net Income after incentive distribution is paid. Number of Principal Owners Number of principal owners of Plains AAP, L.P.,and Plains All American GP LLC The number of principal owners of the companies that ultimately own the reporting entity. Range of Interest Held by Principal Owners Range of interest held by the principal owners The range of interest held by the principal owners of the companies that ultimately own the reporting entity. Schedule of Nonvested Performance-based Units Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of LTIP activity Tabular disclosure of the changes in outstanding nonvested performance-based units. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Class B Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Class B unit awards Disclosure of components of a particular unit class of the general partnership; comprised of the changes related to issuance and units earned in the quantity of the units reserved for future grants, outstanding, and outstanding units earned and the grant date fair value of outstanding Class B units related to issuance and units earned. Schedule of Share-based Payment Awards Expenses [Table Text Block] Summary of expense recognized and cash payments related to outstanding equity compensation awards Disclosure that sets forth the allocation of equity compensation plan expenses to a given line item on the balance sheet and income statement for the period, the fair value of vesting (settled both in units and cash) related to the company's equity compensation plans, and the cash payments related to distribution equivalent rights. Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Fair Value Amortization [Table Text Block] Equity compensation plan fair value amortization Disclosure that sets forth the equity compensation plan fair value estimated to be recognized as an expense in future periods. Employees and Directors LTIP This element represents the long-term incentive plans offered to the employees and directors of the entity. Non-officer Employee Long-term Incentive Tracking Unit Plan Represents the long-term incentive tracking unit plan offered to the non-officer employees of the entity. PAA Long-term Incentive Plans Long-term incentive plans represent awards granted to company employees in which certain performance conditions must be met in order for the employee to receive compensation in the form of either units or cash payment. Share-based Compensation Shares, Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Vesting, Distribution Range [Axis] Reflects the required information pertaining to phantom units granted by distribution range. Share-based Compensation Shares, Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Vesting, Distribution Range [Domain] Domain of a series of domain members (for example, Range01, Range02, Range03...), wherein the purpose of each member for each customized range of vesting of annualized distribution amounts, is to disclose units that are potentially issuable under outstanding plan and other required information pertaining to awards for each of the range members. Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount $3.20 This element represents the annualized distribution amount of $3.20 per unit. Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $3.50 to $4.45 This element represents the range of annualized distribution level from $3.50 to $4.45 per unit. Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $3.50 to $4.25 This element represents the range of annualized distribution level from $3.50 to $4.25 per unit. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vesting in Year One Estimated unit vesting in 2011 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vesting in Year Two Estimated unit vesting in 2012 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the second twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vesting in Year Three Estimated unit vesting in 2013 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the third twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vesting in Year Four Estimated unit vesting in 2014 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the fourth twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Share-based Compensation Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution, Lower Range Limit Annualized distribution, low end of range (in dollars per unit) The floor of a customized range of annualized distribution amounts required for vesting. Share-based Compensation Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution, Upper Range Limit Annualized distribution, high end of range (in dollars per unit) The ceiling of a customized range of annualized distribution amounts required for vesting. Share-based Compensation Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution Annualized distribution level (in dollars per unit) The annualized distribution amount for the purpose of disclosing shares which are potentially issuable under outstanding awards on all plans. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Including Distribution Equivalent Rights, Nonvested Number Units outstanding including DER's (in units) This element represents the portion of outstanding units, which include distribution equivalent rights that entitles the grantee to a cash payment equal to the cash distribution paid on an outstanding common unit. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Acquired-in-Period Acquired (in units) The number of units that were granted to employees of any acquired companies in prior years that are now included in our consolidated number of outstanding units. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Acquired-in-Period, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Acquired (in dollars per unit) The weighted average fair value as of the grant date of share-based award plans other than stock option plans of any acquired companies during the reporting period. Annualized Distribution Level One Annualized distribution level one (in dollars per unit) Level one annualized distribution amount. Annualized Distribution Level Two Annualized distribution level two (in dollars per unit) Level two annualized distribution amount. Annualized Distribution Level Three Annualized distribution level three (in dollars per unit) Level three annualized distribution amount. Annualized Distribution Level Four Annualized distribution level four (in dollars per unit) Level four annualized distribution amount. Distribution Threshold for Participation in Distributions Threshold on distributions paid for participation in award The threshold limit beyond which the holders of the awards are entitled to participate in distributions, if the entity makes such distributions. Maximum Percentage Participation for Distribution in Excess of Threshold Maximum participation in excess of distribution (as a percent) The percentage of maximum participation in excess of threshold distribution level as adjusted for debt service costs and excluding special distributions funded by debt. Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Information [Abstract] Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Information Distribution Equivalent Rights Cash Payments DER cash payments Aggregate cash payments made towards distribution equivalent rights during the reporting period that have been earned by satisfying service and performance requirements. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued-in-Period, Settled in Cash Vested awards settled in cash (in units) Represents the vested units which were settled in cash during the reporting period as a result of any share-based compensation plan other than an employee stock ownership plan. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization [Abstract] Equity Compensation Plan Fair Value Amortization Class B Activity [Roll Forward] Reserved for Future Grants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Reserved for Future Grants, Outstanding The number of authorized units of the general partnership that have not yet been granted/issued and are reserved for future grants. Reserved for Future Grants, outstanding Reserved for future grants outstanding, beginning balance (in units) Reserved for future grants outstanding, ending balance (in units) Outstanding Units [Roll Forward] Outstanding Outstanding Units Earned [Roll Forward] Outstanding Units Earned Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Units Earned, Outstanding Outstanding Units Earned, beginning balance (in units) The number of outstanding awards on nonstock option plans for which the employer has issued equity instruments to an employee and the units issued have been earned as required performance conditions have been met, giving the employee the right to receive quarterly distributions. Outstanding at end of period (in units) Outstanding Units Earned (in units) Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units [Roll Forward] Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units: Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Option, Nonvested, Grant Date Fair Value Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units, beginning balance The grant date fair value of outstanding units. Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units, ending balance Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Grants-in-Period, Grant Date Fair Value Units issued The grant date fair value of units granted/issued. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vested-in-Period, Grant Date Fair Value Units earned The grant date fair value of units earned. Inventory Related Disclosures [Abstract] Inventory-related disclosures Inventory by Category [Abstract] Inventory by category Schedule of Reduction in Incentive Distributions on Acquisitions [Table Text Block] Reduction in incentive distributions related to acquisitions Disclosure of reduction in incentive distributions related to acquisitions. Schedule of Capital Units Issued During Period [Table Text Block] Equity offerings of common units Disclosure of capital units issued in equity offerings during the period. Percentage Distribution of Available Cash Percentage of available cash distributed (as a percent) This element represents the percentage of cash distributed out of available cash. Number of Days Required for Distribution to Unitholders after end of Quarter Number of days required for distribution to unitholders after end of quarter (in days) This element represents the number of days required for distribution of cash to unit holders after the end of the relevant quarter. General Partner Distribution - Level One Level one quarterly general partner incentive distribution. General Partner Distribution - Level Two Level two quarterly general partner incentive distribution. General Partner Distribution - Level Three Level three quarterly general partner incentive distribution. Pacific This element represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Pacific Energy Partners LP. Partners Capital and Distribution [Line Items] Partners Capital and Distribution Distribution Made to Member or Limited Partner, Per Unit over Minimum Distribution Level Cash distributions per common unit excess over MQD (in dollars per unit) The per-unit cash dividend declared or paid to a common shareholder or a unit-holder by a LLC or LP in excess of the minimum distribution level. Reduction in All Incentive Distributions Total reduction in incentive distributions related to acquisition The reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid and to be made in the future to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Period for Reduction of Incentive Period for reduction of incentive (in years) This element represents number of years over which reduction in incentive is agreed by general partners. Reduction in Incentive Distributions, Per Quarter for First Year Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter for first four quarters (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction in incentive distributions per quarter for the first year. Reduction in Incentive Distributions, Per Quarter for Second Year Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter for second four quarters (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction in incentive distributions per quarter for the second year. Aggregate Remaining Incentive Distribution Reductions Aggregate remaining incentive distribution reductions This element represents the aggregate of the remaining incentive distribution reductions outstanding, as of date. SLC Pipeline This element represents the information pertaining to SLC Pipeline LLC. Construction of Pipeline Completed Construction of pipeline completed in Salt Lake City Area system (in miles) This element represents the length of construction of pipeline completed during the period. Partners' Capital, Cash Contribution Made by Co-venturer Cash contribution made by Holly Energy Partners LP The cash contribution made by a co-venture to the joint venture, as recorded in partners' capital. Limited Partners Unit Price, Per Unit Gross Unit Price (in dollars per unit) This element represents the gross unit price per capital unit. Partners Capital Account General Partner Contribution General Partner Contribution The cash inflow from the contribution of general partners to the equity offering during the year. Payments for Withholding Taxes Payment for Canadian withholding taxes This element represents the amount of cash paid during the current period for withholding taxes. Reduction in Incentive Distributions [Abstract] Reduction in incentive distributions Reduction in Future Incentive Distributions in Next Twelve Months Remaining reduction in incentive distributions in 2011 The reduction in the amount of incentive distribution to be made within the twelve months following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Income Not Subject to Current Foreign Tax Partnership earnings not subject to current Canadian tax The earnings of the entity which are not subject to foreign enacted tax laws. Foreign Tax Rate Canadian federal and provincial corporate tax rate (as a percent) This element represents the rate at which the foreign income of an entity is charged to tax as per the enacted tax laws. Foreign Period Tax on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian period tax as a result of book versus tax differences The temporary book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense/benefit. Foreign Period Tax on Permanent Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian permanent differences between book and tax The permanent book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense/benefit. Income Subject to Current Foreign Tax Partnership earnings subject to current Canadian tax The earnings of the entity which are subject to foreign enacted tax laws. Foreign Deferred Tax Expenses (Benefit) on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian deferred tax (benefit)/expense as a result of book versus tax differences The temporary book versus tax differences in the deferred foreign income tax expense/benefit. Foreign Flow Through Entities Deferred Tax Expenses (Benefit) on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian flow-through entities deferred tax (benefit)/expense as a result of book versus tax differences This element represents the foreign 'flow through entities' deferred tax expense/ benefit on book versus tax differences. Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Components of income tax expense 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 realization of the related deferred tax asset in future years. Schedule of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Summary of differences between tax expense based on the statutory federal income tax rate and the entity's effective tax expense Disclosure of the reconciliation of income tax expense (benefit) by applying statutory federal, state and/or foreign tax rates to taxable income per applicable federal, state and/or foreign tax laws. Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Deferred tax assets and liabilities 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. Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) at Foreign Statutory Rate Income tax at statutory rate The amount of foreign income tax expense or benefit for the period computed by applying the foreign statutory tax rates to foreign pretax income from continuing operations. Texas New Mexico pipeline assets purchased from Link This element represents the information pertaining to Texas New Mexico. Environmental Remediation Costs, Business Seller Share Environmental remediation costs borne by the seller of a business acquired by the reporting entity Represents the share of the environmental remediation costs borne by the seller of a business that was acquired by the reporting entity. Premium Per Site for Environmental Insurance Policy Amount deductible per site for environmental insurance policy This element represents the premium deductible per site for environmental insurance policy. Environmental Insurance Policy Taken by Third Party Aggregate Coverage Limit Environmental insurance policy aggregate coverage limit This element represents the aggregate coverage limit of environmental insurance policy taken by third party, to which the reporting entity is a beneficiary. Valero Marketing and Supply Company Represents the information pertaining to Valero Marketing and Supply Company. ConocoPhillips Company Represents the information pertaining to ConocoPhillips Company. Operating and Capital, Leases Future Minimum Payments Due, Current 2011 The required rental payments and other costs due within one year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Two Years 2012 The required rental payments and other costs due within the second year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Three Years 2013 The required rental payments and other costs due within the third year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Four Years 2014 The required rental payments and other costs due within the fourth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due in Five Years 2015 The required rental payments and other costs due within the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Thereafter Thereafter The required rental payments and other costs due after the fifth year of the balance sheet date relating to leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due Total The total of all future contractually required rental payments and other costs on leases defined as operating and capital and generally having an initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. Operating and Capital Lease Expenditures Expenditures related to leases The required rental payments and other costs expended during the period on leases defined as operating and capital which generally have initial or remaining non-cancelable lease terms in excess of one year. SemCrude L.P. Represents the information pertaining to SemCrude L.P. Pacific Pipeline System, LLC Represents the information pertaining to Pacific Pipeline System, LLC. Plains Products Terminals LLC Represents the information pertaining to Plains Products Terminals LLC (PPT), formerly known as Pacific Atlantic Terminals LLC (PAT), which was previously owned by ExxonMobil and GATX and was acquired during the Pacific merger. Schedule of Derivative Instruments Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Amounts of gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivatives (effective portion) Disclosure of the effective portion of the gains and losses on derivative instruments designated and qualifying in cash flow hedges and net investment hedges that was recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) during the current period. Other income, net The net amount of other nonoperating income and expense, which does not qualify for separate disclosure on the income statement under materiality guidelines. Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Derivative, Net Asset (Liability) Value The derivative net asset/liability balance measured at fair value using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3) which is required for reconciliation purposes of beginning and ending balances. Beginning Balance Ending Balance Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Derivative, Net Asset (Liability) Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings The total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from the derivative net asset/liability balance measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) which are included in earnings or resulted in a changed in net asset/liability balance. Included in earnings Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Derivative, Net Asset (Liability) Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income The total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), arising from the derivative net asset/liability balance measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3) which are included in other comprehensive income (a separate component of shareholders' equity). Included in other comprehensive income Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation Recurring Basis Derivative, Net Asset (Liability) Purchases, Sales Issuances Settlements Purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net) which have taken place during the period in relation to the derivative net asset/liability balance measured at fair value on a recurring basis using unobservable inputs (Level 3). Settlements and derivatives entered into during the period Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Long-term debt maturities 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. Senior secured hedged inventory debt facility Represents Senior secured hedged inventory credit facility. Fixed rate senior notes Represents the fixed rate senior notes. 4.75% senior notes due August 2009 Represents 4.75 percent senior notes which were due in August 2009. 4.25% senior notes due September 2012 Represents 4.25 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2012. 7.75% senior notes due October 2012 Represents 7.75 percent senior notes, which are due in October 2012. 5.63% senior notes due December 2013 Represents 5.63 percent senior notes, which are due in December 2013. 7.13% senior notes due June 2014 Represents 7.13 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2014. 5.25% senior notes due June 2015 Represents 5.25 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2015. 6.25% senior notes due September 2015 Represents 6.25 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2015. 5.88% senior notes due August 2016 Represents 5.88 percent senior notes, which are due in August 2016. 6.13% senior notes due January 2017 Represents 6.13 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2017. 6.50% senior notes due May 2018 Represents 6.50 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2018. 8.75% senior notes due May 2019 Represents 8.75 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2019. 5.75% senior notes due January 2020 Represents 5.75 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2020. 6.70% senior notes due May 2036 Represents 6.70 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2036. 6.65% senior notes due January 2037 Represents 6.65 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2037. Debt. Total debt Sum of the carrying values as of the balance sheet date of all debt, including all short-term borrowings and long-term debt. PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility Represents the senior unsecured revolving credit facility. Canadian borrowings Represents the Canadian unsecured revolving credit facility, which is a sub-facility of the senior unsecured revolving credit facility that is used for Canadian borrowings. Percentage of Face Value at which Senior Notes are Sold Percentage of face value at which senior notes are sold (as a percent) This element represents the percentage of face value of senior notes, at which they are sold. Notional Principal Amount on which Interest Spread will be Calculated Notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated This element represents the notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated for interest rate swap. Period of Maturities of Notional Principal Amount on which Interest Spread will be Calculated Period of maturity of notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated (in years) This element represents the period of maturity of notional principal amount, on which interest spread will be calculated. Additional Notional Principal Amount on which Interest Spread will be Calculated Additional notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated This element represents the additional notional principal amount, on which interest spread will be calculated for interest rate swap. Period of Maturities of Additional Notional Principal Amount on which Interest Spread will be Calculated Period of maturity of additional notional principal amount on which interest spread will be calculated (in years) This element represents the period of maturity of additional notional principal amount, on which interest spread will be calculated. Amount of Acquisition beyond which Requirement of Debt to EBITDA will Change Amount of acquisition beyond which requirement of debt to EBITDA coverage ratio will change The threshold used to determine a defined acquisition period for debt covenant ratio purposes. If this threshold is exceeded, an 'acquisition period' is deemed to exist for a specified period of time. Letters of Credit Outstanding Amount Outstanding letters of credit The total amount of the contingent obligation under letters of credit outstanding as of the reporting date. Long-term Debt Weighted Average Life Weighted-average life of long-term debt (in years) This element represents the weighted-average life of long-term debt. Components of debt Schedule of Debt Instruments, Short-term and Long-term, [Text Block] A schedule of data and information pertaining to debt instruments or arrangements that includes disclosures on both short-term and long-term debt. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year One 2011 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Two 2012 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the second twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Three 2013 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the third twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Four 2014 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fourth twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense, Year Five 2015 The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized during the fifth twelve-month period following the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. Equity-based Compensation, Fair Value, Future Amortization Expense Total The total amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized after the balance sheet date for the amortization of the unrecognized expense based on fair value of outstanding awards related to equity compensation plans. AAP LP Class B Units Represents the information pertaining to the class B units of Plains AAP, L.P. reported by a business entity. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options Including Distribution Equivalent Rights, Earned Number The number of outstanding distribution equivalent rights that are vested as of the balance sheet date. DER's currently vested (in units) Share-based Compensation by Share-based Payment Award, Performance-based Units, Probable Annualized Distribution Level The probable annualized distribution amount for the purpose of accruing for outstanding equity compensation awards with performance conditions related to annualized distributions. Probable annual distribution level (in dollars per unit) Storage Capacity Owned but not Used in Operations Storage capacity owned but not used in entity's transportation operations (in barrels) Volume of barrels of storage capacity owned but not used in the entity's transportation operations. Number of Interest Rate Swaps that Terminate Between One and Two Years Number of interest rate swaps that terminate in 2012 The number of interest rate swaps that terminate between one and two years from the balance sheet date. Related Party Transaction, Annual Administrative Services Fee, Successive Renewal Period, in Years Successive renewal period for annual administrative services fee agreement (in years) The automatic successive renewal period in years for the annual administrative services fee agreement if neither party provides written notice to terminate the agreement, as stated in years. PAA/Vulcan Gas Storage LLC Represents information pertaining to PAA/Vulcan Gas Storage LLC, an entity formed by the reporting entity and Vulcan Gas Storage LLC.This entity was formed to acquire ECI (now known as PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC or "PNGS"). Bluewater Natural Gas Storage, LLC Information pertaining to Bluewater Natural Gas Storage, LLC, a subsidiary of PAA/Vulcan. Related Party Transaction, Credit Facility Entered upon Acquisition Credit facility entered into by related party as part of acquisition of ECI The amount of the credit facility entered into by a related party as part of the acquisition of a business by the reporting entity and another related party. Vulcan Gas Storage LLC Information pertaining to Vulcan Gas Storage LLC, a subsidiary of Vulcan LLC, an investments arm of Paul G. Allen, a related party to Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Disclosure of all of the fair values of the purchase price and assets and liabilities acquired in a business combination. Business acquisition purchase price allocation Schedule of Purchase Price Allocation [Table Text Block] Pipeline Transportation Capacity Secured from Third Parties The volume of natural gas pipeline transportation service secured from third parties, expressed in million cubic feet per day. Pipeline transportation capacity right secured from third parties by PNGS (in MMcf per day) Business Acquisition, Canadian Dollar to United States Dollar Foreign Currency Exchange Rate on Acquisition Date The foreign currency exchange rate that was prevailing on the date of the business acquisition for converting Canadian dollars (CAD) to United States dollars (USD). CAD to USD foreign exchange rate at date of Rainbow acquisition (rate in hundredths) Crude oil transmission and gathering assets acquired from Shell Oil Products ("SOP")inn 2002 Information pertaining to the assets acquisition from Shell Oil Products. Environmental Remediation Costs for Acquisitions Selling Company Responsibility Amount of environmental remediation costs above which the costs the selling entity agreed to pay all costs The dollar amount of environmental remediation costs related to a business acquisition above which the costs will be borne by the selling entity, as stated in the business acquisition agreement. Short-term Borrowings Repayment Period The period, in years, within which the short-term borrowings must be repaid. Repayment period (in years) Environmental Remediation, Cash Expenditures, Period in Years, Low End of Range Actual cash expenditures for environmental liabilities, period paid, low end of range (in years) The low end of the range of the estimated period of time when actual cash expenditures are made for environmental liabilities, as stated in years. Environmental Remediation, Cash Expenditures, Period in Years, High End of Range Actual cash expenditures for environmental liabilities, period paid, high end of range (in years) The high end of the range of the estimated period of time when actual cash expenditures are made for environmental liabilities, as stated in years. Cash distribution declared (in dollars per unit) Distribution Declared to Member or Limited Partner, Cash Distribution Per Unit Per-share or per-unit cash distribution declared or paid to common shareholders or unit-holders by a LLC or a LP. General Partner Distribution Rate Percent for distribution to the general partner above threshold amount (as a percent) The percentage for quarterly distributions paid to the general partner above the threshold amount. General Partner Incentive Distribution Threshold Quarterly incentive distribution threshold amount (in dollars per unit) The threshold amount for the quarterly incentive distribution to be made to the general partner. Distribution Paid to Member or Limited Partner, Cash Flow Side Distributions paid to common unitholders (Note 10) Distributions paid to common unitholders The cash outflow due to distributions for all limited partner units. Distribution Paid to General Partner, Cash Flow Side Distributions paid to general partner (Note 10) Distributions paid to general partner The cash outflow due to distributions for all general partner units. Distribution Made to Common Unit Holder or Limited Partner, Cash Flow Side Distributions paid to common unitholders and general partner The cash outflow due to distributions for all class of units. Distributions paid to common unitholders and general partner Partners' Capital Account, (Loss) on Formation of Joint Venture Loss recognized in partners' capital relating to formation of joint venture The loss recognized in partners' capital relating to the formation of a joint venture, which represents the difference between the cash contribution received from the co-venturer and the book value of the co-venturers' interest in the net assets of the joint venture. Schedule of Per Unit Cash Distributions and Excess over Minimum Quarterly Distributions [Text Block] Per unit cash distributions and the portion of the distributions representing an excess over the MQD Disclosure of per unit cash distributions declared and paid to the outstanding units during the accounting period, including the disclosure of the per unit excess over minimum quarterly distributions ("MQD"). Schedule of Cash Distributions Made [Text Block] Total cash distributions made Schedule of payments of cash made to the limited partners and the general partner, including both the 2% owner and incentive distribution rights holders. Information pertaining to PAA Finance Corp., a 100% owned consolidated finance subsidiary that co-issues senior notes along with the reporting entity. Percent ownership in consolidated finance subsidiary that co-issues the notes Partners' Capital and Distributions [Table] Disclosure reflecting information pertaining to Partners' Capital and related distributions. Distributions and Excess over Minimum Quarterly Distributions [Domain] Disclosure of per unit cash distributions declared and paid to the outstanding units during the accounting period, including the disclosure of the per unit excess over minimum quarterly distributions ("MQD"). Distributions and Excess over Minimum Quarterly Distributions [Axis] Disclosure of per unit cash distributions declared and paid to the outstanding units during the accounting period, including the disclosure of the per unit excess over minimum quarterly distributions ("MQD"). PNG Long Term Incentive Plan Awards Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. PNG Transaction Grants Represents PNG Transaction Grants offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $1.55 to $1.90 This element represents the range of the annualized distribution level from $1.55 to $1.90 per unit. Other ranges of annualized vesting distribution This element represents the other ranges of annualized distribution level. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vesting in Year Five Estimated unit vesting in 2015 (in units) The decrease in the number of shares that are potentially issuable under a share-based award plan pertaining to awards, for which the grantee has gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements to receive or retain shares, other instruments or cash in accordance with the terms of the arrangement during the fifth twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. PNG Transaction Grants [Abstract] PNG Transaction Grants Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Vested and Expected to Vest, Grants in Period Phantom common units granted (in units) The number of shares (or other type of equity) issuable under an equity-based award plan pertaining to 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) vested and expected to vest upon the completion of the service period and certain performance conditions. Class B Units of PNGS GP LLC Represents details pertaining to the PNG Class B units. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Participation in Distributions Increments Increments (as a percent) Represents the increase in the percentage of the right to participate in distributions made, when units become earned. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options, Period for Increment in Distributions Increment period (in days) Represents the period (in days) after the annualized distribution occurs, which the unit holder will have to wait before becoming eligible to receive distributions. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Vesting Rights on Fifth Anniversary of Date of Grant Award vesting rights on the fifth anniversary of the date of grant (as a percent) Represents the percentage of awards, which vest on the fifth anniversary of the grant date. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Vesting Rights after Fifth Anniversary of Date of Grant Award vesting rights after the fifth anniversary of the date of grant (as a percent) Represents the percentage of awards, which vest immediately if the units become earned after the fifth anniversary of the grant date. Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Award, Vesting Rights in Percentage Represents the percentage of awards, which vests immediately upon becoming earned units. Award vesting rights (as a percent) Disclosure of the condensed consolidating statements of operations, normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. If condensed consolidating financial statements are being presented, other domain members (in addition to parent) such as guarantor subsidiaries, non-guarantor subsidiaries, and the consolidation eliminations, will be included in order that the respective monetary amounts for each of the domains will aggregate to the respective amounts on the consolidated financial statements. Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations [Table text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Operations Schedule of Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows [Table text Block] Condensed Consolidating Statements of Cash Flows Disclosure of the condensed consolidating statements of cash flows, normally using the registrant (parent) as the sole domain member. If condensed consolidating financial statements are being presented, other domain members (in addition to parent) such as guarantor subsidiaries, non-guarantor subsidiaries, and the consolidation eliminations, will be included in order that the respective monetary amounts for each of the domains will aggregate to the respective amounts on the consolidated financial statements. This element may be used to capture the complete disclosure for the identification, description, and amounts of all significant reconciling items in the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments, to the entity's consolidated income. Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to Plains Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated Net Income Emission Reduction Credits Utilized Emission reduction credits utilized The emission credits utilized as of the balance sheet date being reported. Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges, Pre-tax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net deferred gains from interest rate risk hedging included in AOCI Amount of gain or loss related to terminated interest rate swaps and treasury locks that were designated for hedge accounting. Remediation Costs Incurred Since Business Acquired Remediation costs incurred since acquisition of a business The amount of acquisition-to-date environmental remediation costs incurred by the reporting entity related to a business that was acquired. Schedule of Revenues from External Customers by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Revenues attributable to geographical areas This element may be used to disclose in its entirety the names of foreign countries from which revenue is material. Schedule of Long-Lived Assets by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] Long-lived assets attributable to geographical areas This element may be used to disclose in its entirety the names of foreign countries in which material long-lived assets other than financial instruments are located, and amount of such long-lived assets located in that country or foreign geographic area. Related Party, Ownership Interest in General Partner, Percentage Sold Ownership interest in general partner of entity that was sold by a related party (as a percent) The percentage of ownership interest of related parties in the general partner of the entity that was sold during the period. PNG. Represents information pertaining to PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), subsequent to its IPO in May 2010. Related Party Transaction, Purchase Price of Acquired Entity Total purchase price of ECI, which was purchased by PAA\Vulcan The total cost of the acquired entity that was purchased by a related party of the reporting entity. Related Party Transaction, Initial Cash Investment in Acquired Entity Initial cash investment in ECI The initial investment in the acquired entity by each of the contributing parties, which is the reporting entity and another related party. Southern District of Texas Pipeline Releases Southern District of Texas Pipeline Releases Represents information pertaining to the crude oil releases that occurred in the Southern District of Texas. Number of Smaller Crude Oil Releases Number of smaller crude oil releases in relation to a litigation action The number of smaller crude oil releases experienced in sites owned by the entity in relation to a litigation or environmental action. Number of State Court Actions Consolidated into One Number of state court actions consolidated into one This element represents the number of state court actions consolidated into one in Bankruptcy Court. Rocky Mountain Pipeline System LLC (RMPS) Represents the information pertaining to Rocky Mountain Pipeline System (RMPS), which was acquired during the Pacific merger. Natural Resources Contamination Damages Settled but Allocation Disputed Natural resources contamination - damages settled but allocation disputed The settlement amount of a litigation damages, of which the allocation to the reporting entity is disputed. EPA Request for Information, Number of Truck Terminals Number of truck terminals for which an EPA request for information was received The number of truck terminals for which an Environmental Protection Agency request for information was received. Related Party Transaction, Environmental Indemnifications Cap Agreed upon environmental indemnifications cap The cap for environmental indemnifications for which the reporting entity is responsible per agreement with a related party. Agreed upon time period for the environmental indemnifications agreement cap (in years) Related Party Transaction, Environmental Indemnifications Cap, Time Period The agreed upon time period for the environmental indemnifications cap with a related party, as stated in years. Related Party Transaction, Environmental Remediation Costs, First Costs Amount Paid by Related Party Amount of first costs of environmental remediation costs to be incurred by related party Amount of environmental costs that must be incurred by the partially owned subsidiary before environmental indemnification by the reporting entity will go into effect. Change in Accounting Estimate of Depreciable Lives, Estimated Depreciation Expense Reduction Approximate reduction in depreciation expense due to depreciable life extensions The reduction in depreciation expense due to an increase in the accounting estimate of useful lives. Estimated reduction in basic and diluted earnings per unit due to change in accounting estimate of useful lives Change in Accounting Estimate of Depreciable Lives, Estimated Increase in Earnings Per Unit The estimated increase in basic and diluted earnings per share due to an increase in the accounting estimate of useful lives. The investment in White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC, a crude oil company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC 3.95% senior notes due September 2015 Represents 3.95 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2015. This element represents information pertaining to PAA Natural Gas Storage, LP (PNG), a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, LP and the successor of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS). PNG Represents the Series A subordinated units that have a lower priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Series A Subordinated Units Represents the Series B subordinated units that have a lower priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Series B Subordinated Units Represents the information pertaining to common units and Series A subordinated units. Common and Series A Subordinated Unit Subtotal Modification of Holdings by Tranche [Axis] The division of modification of holdings by tranches. Modification of Holdings by Tranche [Domain] The division of modification of holdings by different tranches. Represents the information pertaining to the tranche one of the modification of holdings. Tranche 1 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche two of the modification of holdings. Tranche 2 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche three of the modification of holdings. Tranche 3 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche four of the modification of holdings. Tranche 4 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche five of the modification of holdings. Tranche 5 Modification of Holdings, Units Modified This element represents modifications made in the series of units as per the amendment and restatement agreement. Modification (in units) Number of Potential Conversion Tranches before Amended and Restated Agreement The number of potential conversion tranches before the occurrence of an amended and restated agreement. Number of potential conversion tranches, before Second Amended and Restated Agreement (in units) Number of Potential Conversion Tranches after Amended and Restated Agreement The number of potential conversion tranches after the occurrence of an amended and restated agreement. Number of potential conversion tranches, after Second Amended and Restated Agreement (in units) Conversion of Stock Portion of Units Modified Represents the portion of units altered by an amended and restated agreement. Portion of Series B subordinated units modified Modification of Holdings Units Prior to Modification This element represents the number of units prior to modification in series of units. Prior to Modification (in units) Modification of Holdings Units, Post Modification This element represents the number of units after the modification in series of units. Post Modification (in units) Performance Thresholds [Abstract] Performance Thresholds Subordinated Units Distribution Available Threshold Annualized The threshold annualized distribution amount that must be available to units with a higher priority before distributions can be made to the subordinated units. Annualized distribution (in dollars per unit) Minimum Working Gas Storage Capacity This element represents the minimum working gas storage capacity placed into service considered as performance threshold for conversion of subordinated units. Working gas storage capacity (in Bcf) Conversion of Subordinated Unit to Common Units Terms This element specifies the terms of conversion of subordinated units into common units. Conversion of subordinated units, terms Conversion of Subordinated Units, Number of Units to be Converted This element represents the number of series one subordinated units to be converted into another series on satisfaction of some operational and financial conditions. Number of Series B subordinated units that will convert into Series A subordinated units Subordinated Unit Conversion Ratio The ratio applied to subordinated units for purposes of determining the number of other series of subordinated units that will be converted Conversion ratio Conversion of Subordinated Units Number of Consecutive Quarters of Distribution Sufficiency Required This element represents the number of consecutive quarters for which there is sufficient cash to pay quarterly distribution. Number of consecutive quarters of cash sufficiency Subordinated Units Distribution Received Threshold Quarterly The threshold quarterly distribution amount that must be received by units with a higher priority before distributions can be made to the subordinated units. Minimum cash quarterly distribution (in dollars per unit) Foreign exchange forward contract at the rate CAD 0.00 to USD 1.00 maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contract at the rate of CAD 0.00 to USD 1.00, which is maturing in 2014. Long natural gas swap position related to anticipated base gas purchases Represents derivative instruments consisting of natural gas call options. 2010 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2010. Nexen Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to Nexen Holdings U.S.A. Inc. Lease gathering business Represents the information pertaining to lease gathering business acquired as part of the Nexen Acquisition. Robinson Lake pipeline Represents the information pertaining to Robinson Lake pipeline acquired as part of the Nexen Acquisition. Other 2010 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to other acquisitions made in 2010. Business Acquisition Pipelines Capacity, Acquired Business capacity acquired (in barrels per day) The pipeline capacity of the system acquired in a business acquisition, expressed in barrels per day. Business Acquisition, Diameter of Pipelines, Acquired Diameter of pipeline acquired (in inches) This element represents the diameter of the pipeline acquired. Business Acquisition, Number of Truck Terminals, Acquired Number of truck terminals acquired This element represents the number of truck terminals acquired in business acquisition. Line of Credit Facility Tenure of Facility This element represents the tenure of the line of credit facility. Tenure of credit facility (in years) Price Risk Derivative Amount Used to Fund Hedge Inventory Represents the amount used to fund hedged inventory and would be reclassified as short-term debt if funded on credit facilities. Amount used to fund hedged inventory Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table] Summarization of information required and determined to be disclosed concerning assets and liabilities, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Axis] Represents a number of concepts which are required or desirable disclosure items concerning assets and liabilities, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis, Disclosure Items [Domain] Provides the general information items required or determined to be disclosed with respect to assets and liabilities, which are measured at fair value on a recurring basis. Long-term Debt Maturities, Fair Value Hedge Adjustment Adjustment to long-term debt maturities related to a fair value hedge. Amount excluded from long-term debt maturities related to a fair value hedge Standby Letter of Credit, Issuance Period Range, Upper Limit Issuance period for standby letters of credit, upper limit (in days) The upper limit of the issuance period for standby letters of credit, as stated in days. Future non-cancelable commitments related to various operating and capital leases Leases [Abstract] The number of court actions in Federal Court. Number of court actions in Federal Court in New Mexico Number of Court Actions in Federal Court Estimated Potential Cost of Environmental Remediation Estimated potential cost of environmental remediation The amount of potential cost of environmental remediation as related to a particular environmental action.This amount is only an approximation and may be higher or lower depending on the nature and extent of cleanup. Environmental Insurance Policy, Expiration Date Environmental insurance policy expiration year (in calendar year) Reflects when the insurance policy terminates, which may be presented in a variety of ways (year, month and year, day, month and year, quarter). Restricted Cash and Investments, Current [Abstract] Restricted Cash Asset Impairment Charges Description Impairment charges - predominantly related to assets taken out of service detail Loss recognized as a result of the initial and subsequent write-down of a long-lived asset's carrying amount to fair value. Maximum Interest Held by Principal Owners The maximum percent of interest held by one principal owner of the companies that ultimately own the reporting entity. Maximum interest held by principal owners (as a percent) Minimum Interest Held by Principal Owners Minimum interest held by principal owners (as a percent) The minimum percent of interest held by one principal owner of the companies that ultimately own the reporting entity. Concentration Risk Percentage Not Met 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 not met by any individual customer, excluding major customers. Percentage of revenue not met or exceeded by other customers (as a percent) Other Assets Noncurrent Condensed Consolidating Financials Other assets, net Carrying amount,as of balance sheet date, of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the condensed consolidating balance sheet. Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity [Abstract] LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL Trucking equipment and other This element represents long lived, depreciable assets used for the primary purpose of moving people and products from one place to another and represents furniture and fixtures, computer hardware and other assets related to field property. Inventory Type [Domain] Types of inventories held by the entity in a schedule of inventories. Inventory, Volumes Linefill and Base Gas The volume of linefill and base gas inventory as of the balance sheet date. Linefill and base gas, Volumes (in barrels or cubic feet) Inventory, Volumes, Noncurrent The volume of noncurrent inventory as of the balance sheet date. Long-term inventory, Volumes (in barrels or cubic feet) Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit, Current The weighted-average price per unit of current inventory. Inventory, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Linefill and Base Gas The weighted-average price per unit of linefill and base gas inventory. Linefill and base gas, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) The weighted-average price per unit of noncurrent inventory. Inventory, Weighted Average Price Per Unit Noncurrent Long-term inventory, Price/Unit of measure (in dollars per unit) Inventory, Volumes Current Inventory, Volumes (in barrels or cubic feet) The volume of current inventory as of the balance sheet date. Investment [Axis] Goodwill Goodwill [Policy Text Block] Describes an entity's accounting policy for goodwill. This accounting policy also may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of goodwill. Describes an entity's accounting policy for intangible assets. This accounting policy also may address how an entity assesses and measures impairment of intangible assets. Intangible Assets Intangible Assets [Policy Text Block] Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Subsidiary Revolving Credit Facilities The net cash inflow (outflow) due to proceeds from additional borrowings and repayments on revolving credit facilities of a consolidated subsidiary of the entity. Net repayments on PNG's revolving credit facility Net borrowings on PNG's revolving credit facility Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] OTHER ASSETS Partnership Income [Abstract] NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PLAINS: Gain (Loss) on Sale of Property Plant Equipment Description The difference between the sale price or salvage price and the book value of a property, plant, and equipment asset that was sold or retired during the reporting period. This element refers to the gain (loss). Gain/loss on sale of various property and equipment Detail Purchase price allocation: Total Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Assets Acquired (Liabilities Assumed), Net Purchase price allocation: Debt Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt Purchase Price Allocation: Assumption of working capital and other long-term assets and liabilities, including cash The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to working capital and other long term-assets and liabilities. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Working Capital and Other Long-term Assets and Liabilities Purchase price allocation: Intangible assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets Intangible assets Purchase price allocation: Property, plant and equipment Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment Property and equipment Business Acquisition Number Of Pipelines Available The number of major natural gas pipelines with connections, either directly or indirectly, to the acquired facilities. Number of major natural gas pipelines Business Acquisition Volume of Permitted Gas Storage Cavern Capacity The volume of permitted working capacity from the natural gas storage caverns acquired. Volume of permitted working capacity of natural gas storage caverns (in Bcf) Business Acquisition Number of Permitted Natural Gas Storage Caverns Acquired The number of natural gas storage caverns acquired which were permitted at the date of the acquisition. Number of permitted natural gas storage caverns acquired Business Acquisition Number of Operational Natural Gas Storage Caverns Acquired The number of natural gas storage caverns acquired which were operational at the date of the acquisition. Number of operational natural gas storage caverns acquired 2011 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2011. Southern Pines Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of SG Resources Mississippi, LLC, whose primary asset is in Southern Pines natural gas storage facility. Volume of Gas Storage Capacity The volume of aggregate working gas storage capacity of natural gas storage facilities owned and operated. Volume of aggregate working gas storage capacity of natural gas storage facilities (in Bcf) Volume of Injection Capacity The volume of aggregate peak injection capacity of natural gas storage facilities per day. Volume of aggregate peak injection capacity of natural gas storage facilities per day (in Bcf) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation [Abstract] Business acquisition, allocation of fair value of assets and liabilities Business Acquisition, Fair Value Allocation, Base Gas The fair value related to a business combination allocated to base gas to be used in ongoing operations. Base gas Business Acquisition Fair Value Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets The fair value related to a business combination allocated to an identifiable intangible asset that will be amortized. Intangible assets Business Acquisition Fair Value Allocation Noncurrent Liabilities, Long-term Debt The fair value related to a business combination allocated to the noncurrent portion of the long-term debt. Debt Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation, Noncurrent Assets The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to noncurrent assets. Purchase price allocation: Business and physical assets Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation, Inventory and Other Working Capital The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to inventory and other working capital adjustments. Purchase price allocation: Inventory and other working capital adjustments Business Acquisition Inventory Volumes The volumes of inventory acquired in a business acquisition. Inventory (volumes in barrels) Number of Additional Businesses Acquired The number of additional businesses acquired by the entity during the period, which are not separately disclosed due to materiality. Number of additional acquisitions completed Schedule of Business Acquisition Purchase Price [Text Block] Business acquisition purchase price consideration - PNGS Acquisition Disclosure of the purchase price in a business combination. Schedule of Business Acquisition Purchase Price Acquisition 2 [Text Block] Business acquisition purchase price consideration - Rainbow Acquisition Disclosure of the purchase price in a business combination with Rainbow. PNGS Acquisition This element represents information pertaining to the acquisition of the remaining interest in PAA/Vulcan Gas Storage, LLC, (subsequently PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS)). Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Axis] Sale of Stock, Name of Transaction [Domain] IPO Private Placement Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Number of common units issued representing limited partner interest (in units) Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Price per unit of common units issued Number of common units issued to Plains (in units) Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued to Parent in Transaction The number of units issued to the parent by the subsidiary or equity method investee per stock transaction. Number of common units issued to Plains (in units) Subsidiary Proceeds From General Partner Contribution Contribution from general partner The subsidiary's cash inflow from a general partner contribution made by the parent entity during the period. Subordinated Units Distribution Available Threshold Quarterly The threshold quarterly distribution amount that must be available to units with a higher priority before distributions can be made to the subordinated units. Quarterly distribution (in dollars per unit) Conversion of Subordinated Units, Number of Consecutive Quarters of Distribution Required This element represents the number of consecutive quarters for which a quarterly cash distribution is paid. Number of consecutive quarters of cash distribution Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Noncontrolling interests, ownership percentage of noncontrolling owners (as a percent) Minority Interest Other This element represents movements included in the noncontrolling interest rollforward which are not separately disclosed or provided for elsewhere in the taxonomy. Other Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other Than Options Issued, Number The number of outstanding awards on nonstock option plans for which the employer has issued equity instruments to an employee, including both employees who have and who have not yet satisfied service or performance criteria necessary to gain title to distributions to the shares. Units Outstanding (in units) Outstanding at beginning of period (in units) Outstanding at end of period (in units) Forward starting interest rate swaps terminated in January 2011 Represents forward starting interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Forward starting swap (30-year) Represents forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Forward starting swap (10-year) Represents forward starting 10-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. The number of interest rate swaps that terminate in the twelve months following the balance sheet date. Number of interest rate swaps that terminate in 2011 Number of Interest Rate Swaps that Terminate in One Year Notional Amount of Foreign Currency Derivatives Notional amount of outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts Derivative, Average Forward Exchange Rate Average exchange rate for outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net Total Derivative Instruments Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Net The portion of gains and losses (net) on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments representing (a) the effective portion of net gain or loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income and (b) the amount of the hedge ineffectiveness. Derivatives in cash flow hedging relationships Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income, Effective Portion, Net Net deferred gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivatives (effective portion) Due from to Related Parties Tabular disclosure of receivables to be collected from and obligations owed to related parties, as of the balance sheet date. Receivable and payable amounts with affiliates of Oxy Revenues and Expenses Related Parties Tabular disclosure of revenues and expenses, including purchases and related costs, resulting from transactions with related parties during the period. Sales and transportation storage revenues and purchased petroleum products from companies associated with Oxy Lynx Holdings I, LLC This element represents information pertaining to Lynx Holdings I, LLC, a related party of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Ownership in limited partner units by related parties (as a percent) Effective aggregate common ownership interest in the Partnership and its subsidiaries (as a percent) Related Party Ownership Percentage in General Partner Prior to Transaction The percentage of ownership by related parties in the general partner of the entity prior to a transaction during the period which affected the ownership percentage. Ownership interest in general partner of entity prior to transaction (as a percent) Related Party Ownership Percentage in General Partner The percentage of ownership by related parties in the general partner of the entity. Ownership interest in general partner of entity (as a percent) Oxy This element represents information pertaining to Occidental Petroleum Corporation (Oxy), a related party of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Related Party Transaction, Revenues from Transactions with Related Party Total revenues Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Purchases and related costs Due from Related Parties, Current Trade accounts receivable and other receivables Due to Related Parties, Current Accounts payable PNG Omnibus Agreement Represents information pertaining to an omnibus agreement between the reporting entity and its subsidiary PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), subsequent to PNG's IPO in May 2010. 2005 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2005. ECI Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of ECI, an indirect subsidiary of Sempra Energy. Percentage of Ownership in Entity Related Party The percentage of ownership in an entity by each of the owners, which include the reporting entity and another related party. Percentage of ownership of PAA/Vulcan Gash Storage LLC Related Party Transaction Net Contributions The amount of contributions made to a related party by each of the owners, which is the reporting entity and another related party. Net contributions made to PAA\Vulcan Sale of Stock Percent of Equity Issued in Transaction The percent of equity issued or sold by the subsidiary or equity method investee per stock transaction. Percent of equity represented by common units (as a percent) Purchase of Stock, Parent Percentage of Ownership in Subsidiary before Offering Percentage of subsidiary's stock owned by parent company before stock transaction. Ownership interest in PNGS prior to IPO (as a percent) Purchase of Stock, Parent Percentage of Ownership in Subsidiary Contributed in Offering Equity interest in PNGS contributed to PNG (as a percent) Percentage of another subsidiary's stock contributed by parent company to the subsidiary or equity method investee undertaking the offering during stock transaction in exchange for units of stock and a general partner ownership percentage of the subsidiary or equity method investee. Sale of Stock Consideration Received on Transaction from Parent Cash from the parent entity received by subsidiary or equity investee for common stock issued or sold in the stock transaction. Proceeds received by PNG from Plains for sale of common units Schedule Of Long-term Incentive Plan Awards, Outstanding and Expected to Vest [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the number of award units under the long-term incentive plan that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance-sheet date.This disclosure stratifies the number of outstanding units by ranges of the company's vesting distribution amounts and by the estimated unit vesting date. Vesting schedule of LTIP awards outstanding Schedule Of Long-term Incentive Plan Awards, of Subsidiary Outstanding and Expected to Vest [Table Text Block] Disclosure of the number of award units under the long-term incentive plan of a subsidiary that validly exist and are outstanding as of the balance-sheet date.This disclosure stratifies the number of outstanding units by ranges of the company's vesting distribution amounts and by the estimated unit vesting date. Vesting schedule of PNG long term incentive plan awards outstanding Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Forfeited in Period The increase in the number of shares reserved for issuance under a share-based award plan other than a stock option plan due to shares that were settled during the reporting period due to a failure to satisfy certain conditions pertaining to the plan. Unit forfeitures (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Outstanding unit issuance (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award Earned in Period The number of shares outstanding/issued under a share-based award plan which have become earned during the reporting period as certain performance conditions have been met giving the grantee the right to receive quarterly distributions. Units earned (in units) Share-based Compensation Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans Time for Vesting The length of time, in months, required for vesting, in some cases. Number of months required for vesting, in some cases Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $15 and $12, respectively Long-term Notes Payable Senior notes, net of unamortized discounts Inventory [Axis] Amount of inventories held by the entity, by inventory type. PNG senior unsecured revolving credit facility Represents the senior unsecured revolving credit facility of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. Line of Credit, Current Credit Facility, Current Long-term debt Long-term Debt, Excluding Current Maturities Total long-term debt Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent Long-term debt under credit facilities PAA senior unsecured 364-day revolving credit facility Represents the 364-day senior unsecured credit facility. Line Of Credit Facility Renewal Date Reflects when the credit facility was renewed, which may be presented in a variety of ways (year, month and year, day, month and year, quarter). Renewal Date Line of Credit Facility, Expiration Date Expiration Date Line of Credit Facility Debt to EBITDA Coverage Ratio Represents the maximum debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio for the credit facility. Maximum Debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio Line of Credit Facility Debt to EBITDA Coverage Ratio During Acquisition Period Represents the maximum debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio during the acquisition period for the credit facility. Maximum Debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio during an acquisition period Line of Credit Facility Length of Acquisition Period Represents the number of quarters within the length of time considered an appropriate acquisition period for acquisitions greater than $50 million. This acquisition period relates to the Debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio covenant terms for a line of credit facility. Length of acquisition period in quarters Line of Credit Facility, Initiation Date Initiation Date 5.00% senior notes due February 2021 Represents 5.00 percent senior notes, which are due in February 2021. Co-issuer of Debt Ownership, Percentage The percentage of ownership of a finance subsidiary, which acts as a co-issuer of debt. Ownership in debt co-issuer (as a percent) Long-term Debt Maturities Other Long-term Obligations Excluded The amount of other long-term debt obligations, which are not included in the disclosure of long-term debt maturities. Amount excluded from long-term debt maturities related to other long-term obligations Debt Instrument, Covenant Compliance Debt Covenant Compliance Fair Value Assets (Liabilities) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Text Block] This element represents, for the fair value measurement of assets and liabilities using significant unobservable inputs (Level 3), a reconciliation of the beginning and ending balances, separately presenting changes during the period attributable to the following: (1) total gains or losses for the period (realized and unrealized), segregating those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets/liabilities), and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets/liabilities) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issuances, and settlements (net); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs). Reconciliation of changes in fair value of derivatives classified as level 3 Subordinated Units Distribution Received Threshold Annualized The threshold annualized distribution amount that must be received by units with a higher priority before distributions can be made to the subordinated units. Minimum quarterly distribution on annualized basis (in dollars per unit) Minority Interest Ownership Percentage Acquired By Noncontrolling Owners The equity interest acquired during the period by noncontrolling shareholders, partners or other equity holders in consolidated entity. Ownership percentage acquired by Holly Energy Partners LP (as a percent) PNG LTIP Awards Including Transaction Grants Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity, including transaction grants which relate to phantom common units. Payments for Purchase of Private Placement Units Purchase price of common unit private placement The cash outflow to acquire common units during private placement. Field Operating costs Costs related to site and field operations during the period. Marathon Petroleum Company, LLC Represents the information pertaining to Marathon Petroleum Company, LLC. Reduction in Incentive Distributions The reduction in the amount of incentive distribution paid to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Reduction in incentive distributions Subsequent Distribution Per Limited Partner Unit Outstanding Subsequent cash distribution declared (in dollars per unit) Cash dividends declared or paid to each outstanding limited partnership unit of a publicly traded limited partnership or master limited partnership (MLP) after the end of an accounting period. Limited partners have limited liability and do not manage the partnership. Subsequent Distribution, Date of Distribution Subsequent cash distribution - date paid (in calendar date) Date of cash or stock or unit payment to all ownership interests of a publicly traded limited partnership or master limited partnership (MLP) after the end of an accounting period. All Ownership Interests, Subsequent Distribution Amount Subsequent cash distribution paid to all ownership interests Amount of cash or stock or unit payment to all ownership interests after the end of an accounting period. Members or Limited Partners, Subsequent Distribution Amount Subsequent cash distribution paid to common unitholders Cash Distributions Made to General Partner Ownership Interest Cash distributions paid to General Partner - 2% Cash distributions paid to general partner for ownership interest; this amount excludes all incentive distributions paid to general partner. Number of common units issued at closing of the IPO IPO, Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued at Closing The number of shares issued or sold by the subsidiary or equity method investee per stock transaction at closing of the IPO. Sale of Stock, Consideration Received on Transaction Net proceeds from private placement on PNG common units Conversion Natural Gas to Crude Barrels Divisor Represents the number to be divided into the amount in cubic feet of natural gas volumes in order to convert the volumes to barrels. Number used to divide into natural gas volumes to convert to barrels Proceeds From (Repayments of) Related Party Debt Net borrowings/(repayments) on intercompany notes Ratio for conversion of natural gas volumes to barrels This element represents the volumetric ratio of mcf of natural gas to crude Btu equivalent. Ratio for Conversion of Natural Gas Volume to Barrels Interest Expense Contango Inventory Purchases Interest expense related to hedged inventory purchases The interest expense incurred on inventory purchases made during the period, which is included in segment profit. Line of Credit Facility EBITDA to Interest Coverage Ratio, Minimum Line Of Credit Facility EBITDA to Interest Coverage Ratio, Minimum Represents the minimum EBITDA-to-interest coverage ratio for the credit facility. Units forfeited Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-Based Payment Award, Grant Date Fair Value, Forfeited The grant date fair value of units granted and forfeited during the period. Related Party Transaction, Transition Services and Assistance Fee Fee received by general partner from related party for providing transition services and assistance The fee to be received by the entity's general partner from a related party for providing transition services and assistance from December 2010 to June 2011. Other Noncurrent Long-term Debt Long-term debt, other Carrying value as of the balance sheet date of other noncurrent debt not otherwise defined (with maturities initially due after one year or beyond the operating cycle if longer), excluding current portion. Total Long-term Notes and Loans Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Text Block] Terms of forward starting interest rate swaps Derivative Instruments Hedge Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings Derivatives in hedging relationships The portion of gains and losses (net) on derivative instruments designated and qualifying as hedging instruments representing (a) the effective portion of net gain or loss reclassified from accumulated other comprehensive income into income for cash flow hedges, (b) the amount of the hedge ineffectiveness for cash flow hedges, and (c) the amount of gain (loss) derived from fair value hedges. Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified in Year Two and Three Gain (loss) expected to be reclassified to earnings prior to 2014 The estimated net amount of existing gains (losses) on cash flow hedges at the reporting date expected to be reclassified to earnings within year two and year three following the date of the latest balance sheet presented in the financial statements. Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Detail Equity compensation expense detail Represents detail of the additional incremental expense recognized during the period arising from the modification of share-based compensation arrangements with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities, CCFI Other financing activities For the Condensed Consolidating Financial Information disclosures, this element represents that net cash inflow (outflow) from other financing activities.This element is used when there is not a more specific and appropriate element in the taxonomy. Notional Amount of Interest Rate Derivatives Notional amount of interest rate derivatives Derivative Instruments Hedging Relationships, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Earnings, Interest Expense Net gain associated with interest rate swaps designated as fair value hedges The net gain (loss) for interest expense recognized in earnings during the period associated with interest rate derivatives designated as fair value hedge. Related Party Ownership Interest in General Partner, Percentage Related party ownership of general partner interest (as a percent) The percentage of ownership interest of related parties in the general partner of the entity. Equity-based Compensation Expense, Incremental Due to Modifications Equity compensation expense Represents the additional incremental expense recognized during the period arising from the modificaiton of share-based compensation arrangements with employees, directors and certain consultants qualifying for treatment as employees. Goodwill. General Partner Incentive Distribution, Subsequent Distribution Amount Subsequent cash distribution paid to General Partner - Incentive Amount of incentive distribution payment to a limited liability corporation managing member or limited partnership general partner after the end of the accounting period. Volume of Withdrawal Capacity The volume of aggregate peak withdrawal capacity of natural gas storage facilities per day. Volume of aggregate peak withdrawal capacity of natural gas storage facilities per day (in Bcf) Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis The reference rate for the variable rate of the debt instrument, such as LIBOR or the US Treasury rate and the maturity of the reference rate used, such as three months or six months LIBOR. Basis Variable interest rate used Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage, Minimum The fee, expressed as a minimum percentage of the line of credit facility, for the line of credit facility regardless of whether the facility has been used. Minimum percentage of commitment fees payable (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage, Maximum The fee, expressed as a maximum percentage of the line of credit facility, for the line of credit facility regardless of whether the facility has been used. Maximum percentage of commitment fees payable (as a percent) General Partner Ownership Interest, Subsequent Distribution Amount Subsequent cash distribution paid to General Partner - 2% ownership interest Amount of cash or stock or unit payment to a limited liability corporation managing member or limited partnership general partner for ownership interest after the end of the accounting period; this amount excludes all incentive distributions paid to general partner. Related Party Transaction, Annual Administrative Services Fee Effective Start Date Month, date and year of the effective start date of the administrative services agreement annual fee. Effective Start Date of Administrative Services Agreement Annual Fee Related Party Transaction, Annual Adminstrative Services Fee Effective Termination Date Month, date and year of the effective termination date of the administrative services agreement annual fee. Effective Termination Date of Administrative Services Agreement Annual Fee Components of inventory, linefill, base gas and long-term inventory Schedule of Inventory [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of inventory, linefill, bas gas and long-term inventory. This may include, but is not limited to, the volumes, unit of measure, total value, and price per unit of each of the major classes of inventory. Accounting Changes and Error Corrections [Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements Goodwill The entire disclosure for goodwill. Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] The fair value related to a business combination allocated to working capital and other long term-assets and liabilities. Working capital and other long-term assets and liabilities Business Acquisition Fair Value Allocation Working Capital and Other Long-term Assets and Liabilities Acquisition-related costs incurred Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Revenues Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Revenue of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Earnings Business Combination, Pro Forma Information, Earnings or Loss of Acquiree since Acquisition Date, Actual Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity [Abstract] Business acquisition, purchase price Entity Registrant Name Entity Central Index Key Document Type Document Period End Date Amendment Flag Amendment Description Current Fiscal Year End Date Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Current Reporting Status Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Legal Entity [Axis] Entity [Domain] Credit facility, Weighted-average interest rate (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate During Period Long natural gas call options related to anticipated base gas purchases Represents the details pertaining to anticipated base gas purchases. Short natural gas swap position related to anticipated natural gas purchases Short swap position consisting of NYMEX and ICE swaps related to anticipated sales of natural gas. Long natural gas swap position related to anticipated natural gas purchases Long swap position consisting of NYMEX and ICE swaps related to anticipated purchases of natural gas. Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Total assets and liabilities Current assets Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets Inventory Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Inventory Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Base Gas The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to base gas. Base Gas Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Working Capital, Net of Cash Acquired The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to working capital net of cash acquired. Other working capital, net of cash acquired Interest rate and commodity derivatives Derivative instruments whose primary underlying risk is tied to to 1) the right to receive or pay a sum of money at a given interest rate; and 2) commodity prices. Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs, Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers from Level 3 to Level 2 Represents assets and liabilities transferred from level 3 to level 2 during the period. Transfers from level 3 to Level 2 Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs, Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Asset (Liabilities) Settlements Settlements that have taken place during the period in relation to assets and liabilities measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Settlements Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs, Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Assets (Liabilities) Derivative Entered Into Derivatives entered place during the period in relation to assets and liabilities measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Derivatives entered into during the period Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset Transfers Out of Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 Transfers out of assets and liabilities measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy that have taken place during the period. Represents the derivative instruments in average spread position for crude oil and gas futures and swaps. Average butane/WTI spread positions Insurance [Abstract] Insurance Minimum Percentage of 2010 Renewal Coverage Limit Percentage of 2010 renewal coverage limit, minimum (as a percent) Represents minimum cost increases with the combination of premiums and deductibles for the 2010 renewal. Period of Purchase of Hurricane Limit Number of years over which hurricane limit insurance is purchased (in years) Represents number of years over which hurricane limit insurance is purchased which covers property and business interruption. Hurricane Insurance Coverage Hurricane property and business interruption insurance limit Amount of insurance to cover property and business interruption losses associated with hurricane damage. Proceeds from Derivative Instrument, Financing Activities The cash inflow provided by derivative instruments during the period, which are classified as financing activities, excluding those designated as hedging instruments. Cash proceeds associated with termination of interest rate swaps Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Escrowed, Percentage Percentage of remaining purchase price (as a percent) Represents the remaining percentage of purchase price that was escrowed. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Adjustment, Amount Received Adjustment amount received Represents the purchase price adjustment amount received. Escrow Deposit Escrowed purchase price Acquisition of Southern Pines Go Zone Bonds Maturing in 2032 Represents Missisipi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Bonds which are maturing in 2032. Go Zone Bonds Maturing in 2035 Represents Missisipi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Bonds which are maturing in 2035. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Liabilities Assumed Bonds acquired in connection with Southern Pines Acquisition Loss Contingency Provision for Penalty Payable Provision for penalty payable Provision for penalty payable as a result of decree that may be approved by the court. Loss Contingency Commitment for Environment Project Commitment to evironmental project Represents the commitment to an environmental project which is contingent upon the decree to be approved by the court. Payments for (Proceeds from) Sale (Purchase) of Interest in Subsidiaries The cash outflow (inflow)associated with the acquisition (disposal) of or advances to an entity that is related to it but not strictly controlled (for example, an unconsolidated subsidiary, affiliate, and joint venture or equity method investment) or the acquisition (disposal)of an additional interest in a subsidiary (controlled entity). Cash received/(paid) for sale/(purchase) of common units of a subsidiary Cash received for sale of noncontrolling interest in a subsidiary Net Cash Received (Paid) From Terminated Interest Rate and Foreign Currency Hedging Instruments Net cash received for terminated interest rate or foreign currency hedging instruments The net cash received (paid) for terminated interest rate and foreign currency hedging instruments. Net cash received for sales and purchases of linefill and base gas Proceeds From (Payments to Acquire) Linefill in Assets Owned The net cash received (paid) to purchase linefill in pipelines owned by the entity. This element represents the number of units prior to the issuance of stock. Prior to PNG equity issuance (in units) Subsidiary Units Owned Prior to Subsidiary Equity Issuance Units purchased (in units) This element represents units purchased during the subsidiary equity issuance. Subsidiary Equity Issuance, Units Purchased This element represents the number of units after the subsidiary equity issuance. Subsidiary Equity Units Owned, Post Equity Issuance Ending units owned (in units) Increase in Parent's capital balance from issuance of additional shares to noncontrolling interest holders. Increase to partners' capital Partners Capital Increase from Subsidiary Stock Issuance Rainbow pipeline crude oil release Rainbow Pipeline Crude Oil Release Represents preliminary estimate of total costs related to a pipeline release. This estimate may be revised upward or downward as information is refined and additional information becomes available.