Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities, Current Estimated environmental reserve Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies Contingencies Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies [Abstract] Amount of first costs for environmental remediation costs to be born by reporting entity per acquisition agreement Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Component Amount Environmental reserve recognized Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Increase (Decrease) for Acquisitions and Divestitures Accrual for Environmental Loss Contingencies, Material Components Description of first costs for environmental remediation costs to be born by reporting entity per acquisition agreement Reserve for environmental liabilities, short-term Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Current Reserve for environmental liabilities, long-term Accrued Environmental Loss Contingencies, Noncurrent Accumulated depreciation Accumulated Depreciation, Depletion and Amortization, Property, Plant, and Equipment Derivative Instruments Accumulated Net Gain (Loss) from Designated or Qualifying Cash Flow Hedges [Member] Net gain/(loss) deferred in AOCI Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Cumulative Changes in Net Gain (Loss) from Cash Flow Hedges, Effect Net of Tax Balance at end of period Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Balance at beginning of period CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN ACCUMULATED OTHER COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Translation Adjustments Accumulated Translation Adjustment [Member] Units tendered by employees to satisfy tax withholding obligations Adjustments Related to Tax Withholding for Share-based Compensation 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: Equity-indexed compensation expense Allocated Share-based Compensation Expense Compensation expense recognized Allowance for doubtful accounts receivable Allowance for Doubtful Accounts Receivable, Current Amortization expense for finite-lived intangible assets Amortization under the declining balance method Amortization of Intangible Assets Impairments Asset Impairment Charges [Text Block] Impairments Asset Retirement Obligation Fair value of asset retirement obligations Asset Retirement Obligation [Abstract] Asset Retirement Obligations Asset Retirement Obligations, Policy [Policy Text Block] Asset Retirement Obligations Total assets Assets Assets Total assets ASSETS Assets [Abstract] Total current assets Assets, Current CURRENT ASSETS Assets, Current [Abstract] Award Type [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Axis] Balance Sheet Location [Domain] Business Acquisition, Acquiree [Domain] Business Acquisition [Axis] Acquisition-related costs Business Acquisition, Transaction Costs Business acquisition Dispositions Business Acquisition [Line Items] Interest acquired (as a percent) Business Acquisition, Percentage of Voting Interests Acquired Pro forma, Basic (in dollars per unit) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Basic Pro forma, Diluted (in dollars per unit) Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Earnings Per Share, Diluted Supplemental pro forma: Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Abstract] Summary of unaudited pro forma results of operations Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Information [Table Text Block] Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Amortizable Intangible Assets (Deprecated 2013-01-31) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Current Assets, Inventory (Deprecated 2013-01-31) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Deferred Tax Liabilities, Noncurrent (Deprecated 2013-01-31) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Goodwill Amount (Deprecated 2013-01-31) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Other Noncurrent Liabilities (Deprecated 2013-01-31) Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation, Property, Plant and Equipment (Deprecated 2013-01-31) Pro forma, Net income attributable to PAGP Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Pro Forma, Total revenues Business Acquisition, Pro Forma Revenue Acquisition-related costs incurred Business Combination, Acquisition Related Costs Transaction costs Purchase Price Business Combination, Consideration Transferred Acquisitions and Dispositions Business Combination Disclosure [Text Block] Total assets due to assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Assets Cash acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Cash and Equivalents Contingent tax liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Contingent Liability Current assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Current Assets Deferred tax liability Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Deferred Tax Liabilities Noncurrent Intangible assets Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Finite-Lived Intangibles Inventory Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Inventory Business acquisition, allocation of fair value of assets and liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Other long-term liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Noncurrent Liabilities, Other Property and equipment Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed, Property, Plant, and Equipment Total net assets acquired Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net Business acquisition, allocation of fair value of assets and liabilities Business Combination, Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired, Goodwill, and Liabilities Assumed, Net [Abstract] Acquisitions and Dispositions Acquisitions Business Combinations Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash and cash equivalents Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period Cash and cash equivalents, end of period Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, at Carrying Value [Abstract] Net increase/(decrease) in cash and cash equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Period Increase (Decrease) Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Restricted Cash Cash and Cash Equivalents, Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Policy [Policy Text Block] Net gain/(loss) expected to be reclassified to earnings in next 12 months Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified within Twelve Months Cash flow hedge Cash Flow Hedging [Member] Class of Stock [Domain] Commercial Paper Notes, Current Commercial Paper PAA commercial paper notes PAA Commercial Paper Program Commercial Paper [Member] COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (NOTE 16) Commitments and Contingencies. Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Text Block] Legal Contingencies Commitments and Contingencies, Policy [Policy Text Block] Commodity Commodity Contract [Member] Class A Shares Common Class A [Member] Class B Shares Common Class B [Member] Deferred tax assets: Components of Deferred Tax Assets [Abstract] Deferred tax liabilities: Components of Deferred Tax Liabilities [Abstract] Comprehensive income attributable to PAGP Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Attributable to Parent Comprehensive income attributable to noncontrolling interests Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Comprehensive income Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Concentration Risk Benchmark [Domain] Concentration Risk Benchmark [Axis] Concentration Risk Type [Axis] Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Risk, Credit Risk, Policy [Policy Text Block] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Risk Disclosure [Text Block] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Concentration Risk [Line Items] Major customer percentage of total revenue Concentration Risk, Percentage Concentration Risk [Table] Concentration Risk Type [Domain] Consolidation Items [Axis] Consolidation Items [Domain] Change from net income attributable to Plains and net transfers to the noncontrolling interest Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Change Due to Net Income Attributable to Parent and Effects of Changes, Net Issuance of PAA common units Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Issuance of Equity by Subsidiary to Noncontrolling Interests Increase in capital from sale of PNG common units Net transfers (to) from noncontrolling interests Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Net Transfers (to) from noncontrolling interests: Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Net [Abstract] Decrease in capital from purchase of PNG common units Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Changes, Repurchase of Shares by Subsidiary Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Line Items] Potential Acquisition of Publicly-held Common Units of PNG Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table] Schedule of effect of changes in the entity's ownership interest in subsidiary on the partner's capital Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Changes, Net [Table Text Block] Basis of Consolidation and Presentation Consolidation, Policy [Policy Text Block] Noncontrolling Interest Consolidation, Subsidiaries or Other Investments, Consolidated Entities, Policy [Policy Text Block] Construction in Progress [Member] Construction in progress Total Contractual Obligation Thereafter Contractual Obligation, Due after Fifth Year 2018 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fifth Year 2017 Contractual Obligation, Due in Fourth Year 2014 Contractual Obligation, Due in Next Twelve Months 2015 Contractual Obligation, Due in Second Year 2016 Contractual Obligation, Due in Third Year Total future non-cancelable commitments Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Abstract] Future non-cancelable commitments relating to operating and capital leases and third-party operation agreements Contractual Obligation, Fiscal Year Maturity Schedule [Table Text Block] Contributed assets Contribution of Property Total costs and expenses Costs and Expenses COSTS AND EXPENSES Costs and Expenses [Abstract] Enterprise Product Partners Co-venturer [Member] Credit Facility [Axis] Credit Facility [Domain] Crude oil Crude Oil [Member] Canadian federal and provincial income tax Current Foreign Tax Expense (Benefit) Current income tax expense Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total current tax expense Current tax expense: Current Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] State income tax Current State and Local Tax Expense (Benefit) Advance cash payments received from third parties to mitigate credit risk Customer Advances, Current Consolidated revenue Customer Concentration Risk [Member] Customer contracts and relationships Customer Relationships [Member] Total debt Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Short-term debt Total short-term debt Debt, Current Debt Debt Debt Disclosure [Text Block] Debt Instrument [Axis] Term Loans, amounts outstanding Long-term Debt, Gross GO Bonds obligor amount Debt Covenant Compliance Debt Instrument, Covenant Compliance Basis Variable interest rate used Debt Instrument, Description of Variable Rate Basis Debt instrument face value Debt Instrument, Face Amount Debt instrument fair value Debt Instrument, Fair Value Disclosure Interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate at Period End Debt instrument, interest rate (as a percent) Debt Instrument, Interest Rate, Stated Percentage Debt Debt Instrument [Line Items] Debt Instrument, Name [Domain] Schedule of Long-term Debt Instruments [Table] Periods for which letters of credit are issued Debt Instrument, Term Senior notes, unamortized discount (in dollars) Unamortized discounts Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount Aggregate unamortized net discount Debt Instrument, Unamortized Discount (Premium), Net Debt issuance costs capitalized during the period Debt Issuance Cost Debt Debt, Policy [Policy Text Block] Long-term accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Classified, Noncurrent Short-term accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current Accrued liability related to all outstanding LTIP awards and DERs Deferred Compensation Share-based Arrangements, Liability, Current and Noncurrent Federal Income Tax Deferred Federal Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Canadian federal and provincial income tax Deferred Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred income tax expense Deferred income tax expense Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total deferred tax (benefit)/expense Deferred tax expense: Deferred Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations [Abstract] Deferred tax (benefit)/expense: Total deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Gross State income tax State deferred income tax (benefit)/expense Deferred State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Deferred tax asset Deferred Tax Assets, Gross Net deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net Net deferred tax assets / (liabilities) Total deferred tax assets Deferred Tax Assets, Net of Valuation Allowance Net operating losses Deferred Tax Assets, Operating Loss Carryforwards Book accruals in excess of current tax deductions Deferred Tax Assets, Tax Deferred Expense, Reserves and Accruals Net deferred tax liabilities Deferred Tax Liabilities, Net Property and equipment in excess of tax values Deferred Tax Liabilities, Property, Plant and Equipment Depreciation expense Depreciation Netting Adjustment Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Liability Net Position - Asset Derivative Asset Rate of fixed interest to be received on interest rate swap (as a percent) Derivative, Average Fixed Interest Rate Average exchange rate for outstanding foreign currency forward exchange contracts Derivative, Average Forward Exchange Rate Cash Collateral Paid Broker receivable Derivative, Collateral, Right to Reclaim Cash Derivative Contract [Domain] Derivative credit-risk related contingent features Derivative, Credit Risk Related Contingent Features, Existence and Nature Asset Derivatives Fair Value Gross Position - Asset Derivative Asset, Fair Value, Gross Asset Liability Derivatives Fair Value Gross Position - Liability Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Liability Net derivative asset/(liability) Derivative, Fair Value, Net Total Derivative, Gain (Loss) on Derivative, Net Derivative Instrument [Axis] Fair value of derivative instruments Derivative Instruments and Hedges, Noncurrent Derivatives and Risk Management Activities Derivatives and Risk Management Activities Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Text Block] Hedging Relationship [Axis] Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table] Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Line Items] Amount of gain/(loss) reclassified from AOCI into income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Reclassified from Accumulated OCI into Income, Effective Portion, Net Other gain/(loss) recognized in income Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Income, Ineffective Portion and Amount Excluded from Effectiveness Testing, Net Gain on derivative instruments recognized in interest expense attributable to the ineffective portion of the swaps Net deferred gain/(loss) recognized in AOCI on derivatives (effective portion) Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion, Net Gain on derivative instruments deferred in AOCI Derivative Instruments, Gain Recognized in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Effective Portion Net Position - Liability Derivative Liability Netting Adjustment Derivative Liability, Fair Value, Gross Asset Derivative disclosures Derivative [Line Items] Derivatives disclosures Derivatives, Fair Value [Line Items] Cash Settlements Associated with Derivative Activities Derivatives, Hedge Discontinuances, Termination of Hedging Instrument or Hedged Item [Policy Text Block] Derivatives That Qualify for Hedge Accounting Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Hedging Derivatives [Policy Text Block] Derivatives That Do Not Qualify for Hedge Accounting Derivatives, Methods of Accounting, Derivatives Not Designated or Qualifying as Hedges [Policy Text Block] Offsetting Derivative Assets and Liabilities Derivatives, Offsetting Fair Value Amounts, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives, Policy [Policy Text Block] Derivatives Derivative [Table] Derivatives designated as hedging instruments Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] Directors Director [Member] Equity-Indexed Compensation Plans Equity-Indexed Compensation Plans Disclosure of Compensation Related Costs, Share-based Payments [Text Block] Dispositions Dispositions Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations, Disclosure [Text Block] Distributions Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Cash Distributions Declared Distribution to limited partner Distributions paid during the period Distributions paid to members (Note 10) Distribution Made to Limited Liability Company (LLC) Member, Cash Distributions Paid Cash distribution to members Quarterly distribution declared, aggregate amount Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Cash Distributions Declared Unitholders of record, date Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Date of Record Declaration date of quarterly distribution Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Declaration Date Distributions declared per common share outstanding (in dollars per share) Distribution Made to Limited Partner, Distributions Declared, Per Unit Schedule of total cash distributions paid by PAA Distributions Made to Limited Partner, by Distribution [Table Text Block] Cash distributions per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Distributions Per Limited Partnership Unit Outstanding, Basic Cash distributions per common unit (in dollars per unit) Distribution per limited partner unit (in dollars per unit) Dividends [Axis] Dividends [Domain] Unitholders of record, date Dividends Payable, Date of Record Trade accounts receivable and other receivables, gross Due from Related Parties, Current Accounts payable, gross Due to Related Parties, Current Early redemption of senior notes Early Repayment of Senior Debt BASIC NET INCOME PER CLASS A SHARE Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax [Abstract] Net Income Per Class A Share Basic net income per Class A share (in dollars per share) Earnings Per Share, Basic Basic Net Income per Class A Share Earnings Per Share, Basic [Abstract] Basic and diluted net income per Class A share Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted Basic and diluted net income per Class A share (in dollars per share) Basic and Diluted Net Income per Class A Share Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Abstract] BASIC AND DILUTED NET INCOME PER CLASS A SHARE Diluted Net Income per Class A Share Earnings Per Share, Diluted Diluted Net Income per Class A Share Earnings Per Share, Diluted [Abstract] Net Income Per Class A Share Earnings Per Share, Policy [Policy Text Block] Net Income Per Class A Share Earnings Per Share [Text Block] Federal statutory income tax rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Percent Effect of translation adjustment on cash Effect of Exchange Rate on Cash and Cash Equivalents, Continuing Operations Additional expense over life of outstanding awards Total Employee Service Share-based Compensation, Nonvested Awards, Compensation Cost Not yet Recognized Environmental Matters Environmental Costs, Policy [Policy Text Block] Environmental Environmental Expense and Liabilities [Abstract] Environmental Remediation Site [Axis] Environmental Remediation Site [Domain] Equity Component [Domain] Other Equity Method Investee [Member] Investment, Name [Domain] Distributions received from equity method investees Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions Ownership interest (as a percent) Equity Method Investment, Ownership Percentage Investments in unconsolidated entities Equity Method Investments Equity Method of Accounting Equity Method Investments, Policy [Policy Text Block] Investments in entities accounted for under the equity method of accounting Equity Method Investments [Table Text Block] Total Estimate of Fair Value Measurement [Member] Recurring Fair Value Measures Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring and Nonrecurring Basis [Line Items] Fair Value Measurements, Recurring and Nonrecurring [Table] Roll forward of Level 3 Net Asset Fair Value, Assets Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Input Reconciliation, Calculation [Roll Forward] Fair Value, Hierarchy [Axis] Measurement Frequency [Axis] Level 1 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 1 [Member] Fair Value, Inputs, Level 2 [Member] Level 2 Level 3 Fair Value, Inputs, Level 3 [Member] Fair Value, Measurement Frequency [Domain] Fair Value Measurements Fair Value Measurement, Policy [Policy Text Block] Fair Value Hierarchy [Domain] Recurring Fair Value Measures Fair Value, Measurements, Recurring [Member] Transfers out of Level 3 (liability) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Liability, Transfers out of Level 3 Transfers out of Level 3 (asset) Fair Value, Measurement with Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Recurring Basis, Asset, Transfers out of Level 3 Included in earnings Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Earnings Included in other comprehensive income Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Gain (Loss) Included in Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) Settlements Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Settlements Transfers out of Level 3 (asset) Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis, Unobservable Inputs Reconciliation, Transfers, Net Beginning Balance Ending Balance Fair Value, Net Derivative Asset (Liability) Measured on Recurring Basis with Unobservable Inputs Fair Values Derivatives, Balance Sheet Location, by Derivative Contract Type [Table] Accumulated amortization Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Accumulated Amortization 2014 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Next Twelve Months 2013 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Remainder of Fiscal Year 2018 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Five 2017 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Four 2016 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Three 2015 Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Amortization Expense, Year Two Finite-Lived Intangible Assets by Major Class [Axis] Estimated amortization expense Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net, Amortization Expense, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Intangible assets Cost Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Gross Finite-Lived Intangible Assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items] Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Major Class Name [Domain] Net Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net Finite Lived Intangible assets Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Net [Abstract] Average Depreciable Life Finite-Lived Intangible Asset, Useful Life Estimated Useful Lives Currency Exchange Rate Risk Hedging: Foreign Currency Derivatives [Abstract] Foreign Currency Transactions Foreign Currency Transaction [Abstract] Gain (loss) on revaluation of foreign currency transactions and monetary assets and liabilities Foreign Currency Transaction Gain (Loss), before Tax Foreign Currency Transactions Foreign Currency Transactions and Translations Policy [Policy Text Block] Foreign exchange contracts Foreign currency derivatives Foreign Exchange Contract [Member] Gain (loss) on sale of various property and equipment Gains (losses) on disposition of assets Gain (Loss) on Disposition of Property Plant Equipment Loss on early redemption of senior notes Gains (Losses) on Extinguishment of Debt General and administrative expenses General and Administrative Expense Unallocated general and administrative expenses Cash distributions paid to General Partner - 2% General Partner Distributions General partner General Partner [Member] General Partner Contribution General Partners' Contributed Capital Goodwill Balance at beginning of period Balance at end of period Goodwill. Acquisitions Goodwill, Acquired During Period Goodwill Goodwill Goodwill and Intangible Assets, Goodwill, Policy [Policy Text Block] Goodwill Goodwill Disclosure [Text Block] Impairment Goodwill, Impairment Loss Goodwill disclosures Goodwill [Line Items] Goodwill Changes in goodwill Goodwill [Roll Forward] Foreign currency translation adjustments Goodwill, Translation Adjustments Segment profit Gross Profit Hedging Designation [Axis] Hedging Designation [Domain] Hedging Relationship [Domain] Impairment charges - predominantly related to assets taken out of service Impaired Assets to be Disposed of by Method Other than Sale, Amount of Impairment Loss Impairment of Long-Lived Assets Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets, Policy [Policy Text Block] Cash distribution paid to General Partner - Incentive Incentive Distribution, Distribution Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner [Line Items] Income taxes attributable to noncontrolling interest: Income Amounts Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest, Disclosures [Abstract] Net Income attributable to Plains Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent [Abstract] INCOME BEFORE TAX Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations before Income Taxes, Extraordinary Items, Noncontrolling Interest Income before tax Equity earnings in unconsolidated entities Income (Loss) from Equity Method Investments CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS Dispositions Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Line Items] Income Statement, Balance Sheet and Additional Disclosures by Disposal Groups, Including Discontinued Operations [Table] Income Statement Location [Axis] Income Statement Location [Domain] Income Taxes Income Taxes Income Tax Disclosure [Text Block] Income taxes, net of amounts refunded Income Taxes Paid, Net Income tax expense Income Tax Expense (Benefit) Total income tax expense Income Taxes Income Tax, Policy [Policy Text Block] Income tax at statutory rate Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation at Federal Statutory Income Tax Rate, Amount Federal benefit of state income taxes Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation, State and Local Income Taxes, Amount Trade accounts receivable and other Increase (Decrease) in Accounts and Other Receivables Accounts payable and other current liabilities Increase (Decrease) in Accounts Payable and Accrued Liabilities Inventory Increase (Decrease) in Inventories Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions Increase (Decrease) in Operating Capital [Abstract] Changes in assets and liabilities, net of acquisitions: Increase (Decrease) in Restricted Cash Release of restricted cash previously held in escrow Change in restricted cash Increase (Decrease) in Stockholders' Equity [Roll Forward] Intangible Assets Intangible Assets, Finite-Lived, Policy [Policy Text Block] Interest expense, capitalized interest Interest Costs Capitalized Interest expense Interest expense (net of capitalized interest of $38, $36 and $25, respectively) Interest Expense Interest expense Interest Expense [Member] Interest, net of amounts capitalized Interest Paid, Net Interest Rate Contracts Interest Rate Contract [Member] Interest Rate Risk Hedging Interest Rate Derivatives [Abstract] Interest Rate Swaps Interest Rate Swap [Member] Intersegment Intersegment Eliminations [Member] Inventory disclosures Inventory [Line Items] Inventory Inventory, Net Long-term inventory Inventory, Noncurrent Inventory, Linefill, Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Inventory, Policy [Policy Text Block] Non-cash charges related to the write-down of inventory Inventory valuation adjustments Inventory Write-down IPO IPO [Member] Future non-cancelable commitments related to various operating and capital leases Leases [Abstract] Outstanding letters of credit Letters of Credit Outstanding, Amount Total liabilities and partners' capital / members' equity Liabilities and Equity LIABILITIES AND PARTNERS' CAPITAL / MEMBERS' EQUITY Liabilities and Equity [Abstract] Total current liabilities Liabilities, Current CURRENT LIABILITIES Liabilities, Current [Abstract] Total long-term liabilities Liabilities, Noncurrent LONG-TERM LIABILITIES Liabilities, Noncurrent [Abstract] Other long-term liabilities and deferred credits Liabilities, Other than Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Total members' equity Limited Liability Company (LLC) Members' Equity, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance Balance Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Managing Member or General Partner, Ownership Interest General partner or managing member ownership interest (as a percent) Limited partnership ownership interest (as a percent) Limited Liability Company (LLC) or Limited Partnership (LP), Members or Limited Partners, Ownership Interest Ownership interest (as a percent) Common Units Limited Partner [Member] Partners' Capital (Excluding Noncontrolling Interests) Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Axis] Limited Partners' Capital Account, Class [Domain] Cash distributions paid to common unit holders Limited Partners' Capital Account, Distribution Amount Shares outstanding Limited Partners' Capital Account [Line Items] Statement Class A Shareholders, shares outstanding (in units) Limited Partners' Capital Account, Units Outstanding Shares outstanding Shares outstanding Shares outstanding Proceeds from Sale Limited Partners' Contributed Capital Borrowings outstanding Line of Credit Facility, Amount Outstanding Commitment fee (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Commitment Fee Percentage Borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Current Borrowing Capacity Credit facility, interest rate (as a percent) Line of Credit Facility, Interest Rate at Period End Maximum borrowing capacity Line of Credit Facility, Maximum Borrowing Capacity Credit Facilities Credit agreements Line of Credit [Member] Credit Facility, Current Line of Credit, Current Accounts Receivable Loans, Notes, Trade and Other Receivables Disclosure [Text Block] Long-term debt: Long-term Debt, Unclassified [Abstract] Total long-term debt Long-term Debt and Capital Lease Obligations Maturities Long-term Debt, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Thereafter Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal after Year Five 2014 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Next Twelve Months 2018 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Five 2017 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Four 2016 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Three 2015 Long-term Debt, Maturities, Repayments of Principal in Year Two Long-term debt under credit facilities Long-term Line of Credit, Noncurrent Total Notes and Loans, Noncurrent Senior notes, net of unamortized discount of $15 and $15, respectively PAA Senior notes, net of unamortized discounts Notes Payable, Noncurrent Loss Contingency Nature [Axis] Loss Contingencies Loss Contingencies [Line Items] Loss Contingencies [Table] Natural resources contamination - settlement paid Loss Contingency, Damages Paid, Value Estimated maximum fines and penalties for alleged violations Loss Contingency, Damages Sought, Value Expected maximum settlement amount Loss Contingency, Estimate of Possible Loss Loss Contingency, Nature [Domain] Customer [Axis] Initial margin Margin Deposit Assets Maximum Maximum [Member] Members' equity, excluding noncontrolling interests Members' Equity. MEMBERS' EQUITY Members' Equity Noncontrolling interests Members' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Beginning balance Ending balance Members' Equity Members' Equity Notes Disclosure [Text Block] Members' Equity (Excluding Noncontrolling Interests) Member Units [Member] Minimum Minimum [Member] Distributions to noncontrolling interests Noncontrolling Interest, Decrease from Distributions to Noncontrolling Interest Holders Distributions Noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Noncontrolling Interest [Line Items] Noncontrolling interests in members' equity Noncontrolling interests, ownership percentage of noncontrolling owners Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Noncontrolling Owners Ownership interest (as a percent) Noncontrolling Interest, Ownership Percentage by Parent Noncontrolling Interest [Table] Changes in the noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Stockholders' Equity Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Roll Forward] Customer [Domain] Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Financing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net cash used in investing activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Investing Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] Net cash provided by operating activities Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES Net Cash Provided by (Used in) Operating Activities, Continuing Operations [Abstract] NET INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO PAGP Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Parent Net income attributable to Plains Net income attributable to PAGP Net income available to limited partners Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net Income (Loss) Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Net income Total Net Income (Loss) Available to Common Stockholders, Diluted Diluted net income per Class A share (in dollars per unit) Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted Basic net income per Class A share (in dollars per unit) Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Basic, Net of Tax DILUTED NET INCOME PER CLASS A SHARE Net Income (Loss), Net of Tax, Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted [Abstract] Effect of dilutive securities: Net Income (Loss), Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit, Diluted, Other Disclosures [Abstract] Recent Accounting Pronouncements Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Text Block] Recent Accounting Pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements, Policy [Policy Text Block] Non-controlling interests associated with the book value of PNG sold to third parties Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Sale of Parent Equity Interest Issuance of PNG common units Noncontrolling Interest, Increase from Subsidiary Equity Issuance Increase (Decrease) in noncontrolling interest Noncontrolling Interests Noncontrolling Interest [Member] Long-Lived Assets Long-Lived Assets Derivatives not designated as hedging instruments Not Designated as Hedging Instrument [Member] OTHER INCOME/(EXPENSE) Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Abstract] Number of additional acquisitions completed (in entities) Number of Businesses Acquired Number of outstanding interest rate swaps (in contracts) Number of Interest Rate Derivatives Held Operating segments number Number of Operating Segments Costs Offering Costs, Partnership Interests Office property and equipment Office Equipment [Member] Netting Adjustment: Offsetting [Abstract] Derivative Asset Positions Offsetting Derivative Assets [Abstract] Derivative Liability Positions Offsetting Derivative Liabilities [Abstract] Field operating costs Operating Costs and Expenses OPERATING INCOME Operating Income (Loss) Operating income Total Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due 2014 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments Due, Next Twelve Months 2018 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Five Years 2017 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Four Years 2016 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Three Years 2015 Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due in Two Years Thereafter Operating Leases, Future Minimum Payments, Due Thereafter Expenditures related to leases Operating Leases, Rent Expense, Minimum Rentals Operating Segments Operating Segments [Member] Organization and Basis of Presentation Organization and Basis of Presentation Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements Disclosure [Text Block] Impairments of long-lived assets Other Asset Impairment Charges Impairments of long-lived assets primarily related to Pier 400 terminal project Other Assets, Net Other current assets Other Assets, Current Other Assets, Net Other Assets Disclosure [Text Block] Other Other Assets, Miscellaneous, Noncurrent Other, net Other Assets, Noncurrent Other assets, net Other Assets, Noncurrent [Abstract] OTHER ASSETS Other Assets, Net Total Other Commitment Thereafter Other Commitment, Due after Fifth Year 2018 Other Commitment, Due in Fifth Year 2017 Other Commitment, Due in Fourth Year 2014 Other Commitment, Due in Next Twelve Months 2015 Other Commitment, Due in Second Year 2016 Other Commitment, Due in Third Year Other commitments Other Commitment, Fiscal Year Maturity [Abstract] Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Currency translation adjustments Deferred gain (loss) on cash flow hedges, net of tax Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Derivatives Qualifying as Hedges, Net of Tax Currency translation adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Foreign Currency Transaction and Translation Adjustment, Net of Tax Other comprehensive loss Total period activity Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Net of Tax Other comprehensive income/(loss) Other comprehensive loss Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Reclassification adjustments Other Comprehensive Income (Loss), Reclassification Adjustment from AOCI on Derivatives, Net of Tax Other comprehensive income/(loss): Other Comprehensive (Income) Loss, Net of Tax, Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Other Current Assets [Member] Other current assets Other current liabilities Other Current Liabilities [Member] Other current liabilities Other Liabilities, Current Long-term debt under credit facilities and other Other Long-term Debt, Noncurrent Other Other Noncash Income (Expense) Other long-term assets Other Noncurrent Assets [Member] Other Noncurrent Liabilities [Member] Other long-term liabilities and deferred credits Other income/(expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) Other income, net Other short-term debt Other Short-term Borrowings Less: Undistributed earnings allocated and distributions to participating securities Participating Securities, Distributed and Undistributed Earnings Partner Capital Components [Axis] Partner Capital Components [Domain] Partners' Capital Partners' Capital Contributions from noncontrolling interests related to PAA common unit issuances Partners' Capital Account, Contributions Distributions Partners' Capital Account, Distributions Partners' Capital Account, Sale of Units Issuance of PAA common units Net Proceeds Partners' Capital Account, Unit-based Compensation Equity-indexed compensation expense Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sale of Units Units Sold (in shares) Units Issued (in shares) Number of shares issued upon closing of the IPO Partners' Capital Account, Units, Sold in Public Offering Noncontrolling interests Partners' Capital Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Beginning balance Ending balance Transfer of ownership interest Total partners' capital Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Balance PARTNERS' CAPITAL Partners' Capital, Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest [Abstract] Partners' Capital and Distributions Partners' Capital and Distributions Partners' Capital Notes Disclosure [Text Block] Partners' Capital, Other Other Partner Type [Axis] Partner Type of Partners' Capital Account, Name [Domain] Cash payment for (proceeds from) termination of interest rate swaps Payments for (Proceeds from) Hedge, Financing Activities Other investing activities Payments for (Proceeds from) Other Investing Activities Distributions paid to noncontrolling interests (Note 10) Payments of Ordinary Dividends, Noncontrolling Interest Cash paid in connection with acquisitions, net of cash acquired (Note 3) Payments to Acquire Businesses, Net of Cash Acquired Investment in unconsolidated entities Payments to Acquire Equity Method Investments Contribution to entity's equity method investees Additions to property, equipment and other Payments to Acquire Property, Plant, and Equipment Pipelines and related facilities Pipelines [Member] Plan Name [Axis] Plan Name [Domain] Plains All American GP LLC Predecessor [Member] Preferred Units by Name [Axis] Preferred Units, Class [Domain] Commodity Price Risk Hedging: Price Risk Derivatives [Abstract] Private Placement Private Placement [Member] Contributions from noncontrolling interests related to PAA common unit issuances Proceeds from Contributions from Affiliates Cash received upon formation of equity-method investment Proceeds from Equity Method Investment, Dividends or Distributions, Return of Capital Proceeds from IPO Proceeds from Issuance Initial Public Offering Proceeds received from initial public offering (Note 10) Net proceeds from IPO, after deducting underwriting discounts and commissions and direct offering expenses Net proceeds from the issuance of PAA common units Proceeds from Issuance of Common Limited Partners Units Proceeds from Issuance of Debt Increase in amount of term loan Net proceeds from private placement on PNG common units Proceeds from Issuance of Private Placement Proceeds from the issuance of PAA senior notes Proceeds from Issuance of Senior Long-term Debt Net proceeds from the issuance of PNG common units Proceeds from Noncontrolling Interests Other financing activities Proceeds from (Payments for) Other Financing Activities Net borrowings under PAA commercial paper program (Note 9) Proceeds from (Repayments of) Commercial Paper Proceeds from sales of assets Proceeds from Sale of Productive Assets Proceeds from sale of various property and equipment Total borrowings Proceeds from Short-term Debt NET INCOME Net income Net Income (Loss), Including Portion Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Net income attributable to noncontrolling interests Property and equipment, useful life Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Axis] Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment Disclosure [Text Block] PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT Property, Plant and Equipment, Gross Property and equipment, gross Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items] Property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment, Net Property and Equipment Property, Plant and Equipment, Policy [Policy Text Block] Components of property and equipment, net Property, Plant and Equipment [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment, Type [Domain] Average Depreciable Life Property, Plant and Equipment, Useful Life Estimated Useful Lives Inventory [Axis] Inventory [Domain] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Quarterly Financial Information [Text Block] Range [Axis] Range [Domain] Accounts Receivable Trade accounts receivable and other receivables, net Receivables, Net, Current Accounts Receivable Receivables, Net, Current [Abstract] Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to Plains Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Consolidated [Abstract] Probable recoveries from insurers and third parties recorded as a receivable Recorded Third-Party Environmental Recoveries Receivable Related Party [Domain] Purchases and related costs Related Party Transaction, Expenses from Transactions with Related Party Related party transaction Related Party Transaction [Line Items] Related Party Transactions Related Party [Axis] Related Party Transactions Related Party Transactions Disclosure [Text Block] Repayments of PAA senior notes Repayments of Senior Debt Repayments of PAA senior notes Total repayments Repayments of Short-term Debt Restricted cash Restricted Cash and Cash Equivalents, Current Restricted Cash Restricted Cash and Investments, Current [Abstract] Revenues Revenue from Related Parties Revenue Recognition Revenue Recognition, Policy [Policy Text Block] Total revenues Revenues Revenues REVENUES Revenues [Abstract] Revenues and long-lived assets attributable to geographic areas Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items] Major Customers and Concentration of Credit Risk Net proceeds received by PNG from sale of common units Sale of Stock, Consideration Received on Transaction Sale of Stock, Name of Transaction [Domain] Number of common units issued representing limited partner interest (in units) Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued in Transaction Price per unit of common units issued Sale of Stock, Price Per Share Merger Agreement Scenario, Plan [Member] Scenario, Unspecified [Domain] Schedule of Business Acquisitions, by Acquisition [Table] Components of income tax expense Schedule of Components of Income Tax Expense (Benefit) [Table Text Block] Components of debt Schedule of Debt [Table Text Block] Deferred tax assets and liabilities are aggregated by the applicable tax paying entity and jurisdiction Schedule of Deferred Tax Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Net deferred gain/(loss), including tax effects, recognized in AOCI for derivatives Schedule of Derivative Instruments, Effect on Other Comprehensive Income (Loss) [Table Text Block] Impact of derivative activities recognized in earnings Derivative Instruments, Gain (Loss) [Table Text Block] Summary of derivative assets and liabilities on condensed consolidated balance sheet Schedule of Derivative Instruments in Statement of Financial Position, Fair Value [Table Text Block] Schedule of interest rate risk hedging Schedule of Derivative Instruments [Table Text Block] Computation of basic and diluted net income per class A share Schedule of Earnings Per Share, Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Summary of differences between tax expense based on the statutory federal income tax rate and the entity's effective tax expense Schedule of Effective Income Tax Rate Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Investment, Name [Axis] Equity Method of Accounting Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Line Items] Schedule of Equity Method Investments [Table] Schedule of Expected Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] (Deprecated 2013-01-31) Derivative financial assets and liabilities within the fair value hierarchy accounted for at fair value on a recurring basis Schedule of Fair Value, Assets and Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis [Table Text Block] Schedule of amortization of the contract under the declining balance method for the four full or partial calendar years Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets, Future Amortization Expense [Table Text Block] Estimated amortization expense related to finite-lived intangible assets for the next five years Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table] Components of intangible assets that have finite lives Schedule of Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Table Text Block] Schedule of Goodwill [Table] Schedule of goodwill by segment and changes during the period Schedule of Goodwill [Table Text Block] Schedule of Incentive Distribution Made to Managing Member or General Partner [Table] Per unit cash distributions and the portion of the distributions representing an excess over the MQD Schedule of Incentive Distributions Made to Managing Members or General Partners by Distribution [Table Text Block] Schedule of Limited Partners' Capital Account by Class [Table] Long-term debt maturities Schedule of Maturities of Long-term Debt [Table Text Block] Summary of equity-indexed compensation activity for long-term incentive plan awards Schedule of Nonvested Performance-based Units Activity [Table Text Block] Open foreign currency exchange contracts Schedule of Notional Amounts of Outstanding Derivative Positions [Table Text Block] Components of other assets, net of accumulated amortization Schedule of Other Assets, Noncurrent [Table Text Block] Property, Plant and Equipment [Table] Quarterly Financial Data (Unaudited) Schedule of Quarterly Financial Information [Table Text Block] Business acquisition fair value determination Schedule of Recognized Identified Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed [Table Text Block] Schedule of Related Party Transactions, by Related Party [Table] Information related to transactions with related parties Schedule of Related Party Transactions [Table Text Block] Schedule of Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Table] Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table] Segment financial data Schedule of Segment Reporting Information, by Segment [Table Text Block] Schedule of Share-based Compensation Arrangements by Share-based Payment Award [Table] Schedule of Short-term Debt [Table] Segments [Domain] Geographical [Domain] Operating Segments Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Other Information about Entity's Reportable Segments Segment Reporting, Disclosure of Other Information about Entity's Reportable Segments [Abstract] Operating Segments Segment Reporting Disclosure [Text Block] Operating segment information Segment Reporting Information [Line Items] Revenues: Segment Reporting Information, Revenue for Reportable Segment [Abstract] Operating Segments Segment Reporting, Policy [Policy Text Block] Senior Notes Senior Notes, Noncurrent Senior Notes, Current Senior Notes, Current Share-based Compensation Equity-indexed compensation expense Equity-indexed Compensation Plans, Additional Disclosures Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Additional General Disclosures [Abstract] Award vesting rights (as a percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights Phantom common units which vested in increment (in percent) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Award Vesting Rights, Percentage Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value per unit LTIP Vesting Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Additional Disclosures [Abstract] Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeited in Period Cancelled or forfeited (in units) Cancelled or forfeited (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Forfeitures, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Granted (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Grants in Period 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) Outstanding at beginning of period (in units) Units outstanding (in units) Outstanding at end of period (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number Outstanding (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Number of Shares [Roll Forward] Outstanding at beginning of period (in dollars per unit) Outstanding at end of period (in dollars per unit) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Nonvested, Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vested in Period Vested (in units) 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) Equity-indexed Compensation Plans Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award [Line Items] Share-based Compensation Arrangement, by Share-based Payment Award Forfeitures (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Forfeitures Forfeitures (in units) Granted (in units) Granted (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Non-Option Equity Instruments, Granted Authorized grants (in units) Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Number of Shares Authorized Authorized grants (in units) Shares issued to directors Share-based Compensation Arrangement by Share-based Payment Award, Shares Issued in Period Equity Award [Domain] Share-based Compensation, Option and Incentive Plans Policy [Policy Text Block] Equity Compensation IPO price per share (in dollars per share) Share price of shares sold in IPO (in dollars per share) Share Price Units withheld for taxes (in units) Shares Paid for Tax Withholding for Share Based Compensation Short-term Debt [Abstract] Short-term debt: Short-term Debt, Type [Axis] Short-term Debt, Type [Domain] Summary of Significant Accounting Policies Significant Accounting Policies [Text Block] Site Contingency [Line Items] Environmental remediation disclosures Site Contingency [Table] Letters of credit Standby Letters of Credit [Member] State income tax State and Local Income Tax Expense (Benefit), Continuing Operations Segments [Axis] Class of Stock [Axis] Equity Components [Axis] Geographical [Axis] Statement Statement [Line Items] CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME Scenario [Axis] Statement [Table] Unit split conversion ratio Stockholders' Equity Note, Stock Split, Conversion Ratio Other Stockholders' Equity, Other Stockholders' Equity, Period Increase (Decrease) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, New Issues Number of shares issued in IPO Number of shares issued Number of shares issued (in shares) Shares issued in connection with the reorganization and IPO Units issued in connection with the settlement of vested awards, net of tax withholding (in units) Stock Issued During Period, Shares, Share-based Compensation, Net of Forfeitures Issuance of common units under LTIP (in units) Issuance of Class A shares to the public, net of offering and other costs Stock Issued During Period, Value, New Issues Stock Issued During Period, Value, Share-based Compensation, Gross Issuance of PAA common units under LTIP Subsequent events Subsequent Event [Line Items] Subsequent Event Subsequent Event [Member] Subsequent Events Subsequent Events Subsequent Events [Text Block] Subsequent Event [Table] Subsequent Event Type [Axis] Subsequent Event Type [Domain] Consolidated subsidiary, ownership interest held by the parent (as a percent) Subsidiary of Limited Liability Company or Limited Partnership, Ownership Interest Subsidiary, Sale of Stock [Axis] Cash paid for: Supplemental Cash Flow Information [Abstract] Title of Individual [Axis] Relationship to Entity [Domain] Accounts Receivable Trade and Other Accounts Receivable, Policy [Policy Text Block] Debt issue costs Unamortized Debt Issuance Expense Use of Estimates Use of Estimates, Policy [Policy Text Block] Vesting [Axis] Vesting [Domain] Basic weighted average number of limited partner units outstanding (in units) Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Basic Basic weighted average Class A shares outstanding (in units) Diluted weighted average number of limited partner units outstanding (in units) Weighted Average Limited Partnership Units Outstanding, Diluted Diluted weighted average Class A shares outstanding (in units) Dilutive shares resulting from assumed conversion of units Weighted Average Number Diluted Shares Outstanding Adjustment Diluted weighted average number of Class A shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Diluted Number of dilutive units (in unit) Basic and diluted weighted average number of Class A shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic and Diluted Basic and diluted weighted average Class A shares outstanding (in shares) Weighted average number of Class A shares outstanding (in shares) Basic weighted average number of Class A shares outstanding Weighted Average Number of Shares Outstanding, Basic Weighted average LTIP units (in units) Weighted Average Number Diluted Limited Partnership Units Outstanding Adjustment Write off of debt issuance cost Write off of Deferred Debt Issuance Cost Canada CANADA United States UNITED STATES Amendment Description Amendment Flag Current Fiscal Year End Date Document Fiscal Period Focus Document Fiscal Year Focus Document Period End Date Document Type Entity Central Index Key Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding Entity Current Reporting Status Entity [Domain] Entity Filer Category Entity Public Float Entity Registrant Name Entity Voluntary Filers Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Legal Entity [Axis] Inventory hedged (in barrels, Mcf or megawatt hours) Derivative, Nonmonetary Notional Amount Notional amount of derivatives Derivative, Notional Amount AAP Manaegment Unit Activity [Roll Forward] Reserved for Future Grants AAP Revolving Credit Facility [Member] AAP revolving credit facility Represents the revolving credit facility provided for under the senior secured credit agreement of Plains AAP, L.P., a subsidiary of the reporting entity. AAP senior secured revolving credit facility AAP Senior Secured Credit Agreement [Member] Represents the senior secured credit agreement of Plains AAP, L.P., a subsidiary of the reporting entity. AAP senior secured credit agreement AAP Term Loan [Member] Represents the term loan provided for under the senior secured credit agreement of Plains AAP, L.P., a subsidiary of the reporting entity. AAP term loan AAP Units [Member] AAP units Represents the Class A limited partner units of Plains AAP, L.P. Accounts Receivable, Net Disclosure of Maximum Age of Balances Past Scheduled Invoice Date Net accounts receivable, maximum age of balances past their scheduled invoice date The maximum number of days past their scheduled invoice date for substantially all of the accounts receivable. Accumulated amortization Accumulated Amortization of Other Assets, Noncurrent Carrying amount of accumulated amortization of noncurrent assets not separately disclosed in the balance sheet. Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Other Adjustments [Member] Represents the component of other comprehensive income (loss) that is not specifically defined elsewhere in the taxonomy. Other Represents the minimum acquisition amount for the debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio covenant compliance requirement to change. Acquisition Measurement Period Threshold Threshold for acquisition period qualification Represents the period of time following a significant acquisition during which the debt-to-EBITDA coverage ratio covenant compliance requirement is modified. Acquisition Period Acquisition period 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 Acquisition Related Environmental Remediation Costs Amount above which Selling Company is Responsible 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. Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2010. 2010 Acquisitions Acquisitions in 2010 [Member] 2011 Acquisitions Acquisitions in 2011 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to acquisitions made in 2011. Acquisitions in 2012 [Member] 2012 Acquisitions Represents information pertaining to the acquisitions made in 2012. 2013 Acquisitions Represents information pertaining to the acquisitions made in 2013. Acquisitions in 2013 [Member] Annual fee payable under the administrative agreement Amount of annual fees payable to the LLC under the administrative agreement for general and administrative services provided. Administrative Agreement Annual Fee Payable 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. Amount of Future Tax Exempt Debt Issuance Amount that may be utilized for future tax-exempt debt issuance Amount of tax-exempt debt issuance that may be utilized in the future. Level four annualized distribution threshold that must be reached for units to become earned. Annualized Distribution Level Four Annualized distribution level four (in dollars per unit) Annualized Distribution Level One Annualized distribution level one (in dollars per unit) Level one annualized distribution threshold that must be reached for units to become earned. Annualized distribution level three (in dollars per unit) Level three annualized distribution threshold that must be reached for units to become earned. Annualized Distribution Level Three Annualized distribution level two (in dollars per unit) Level two annualized distribution threshold that must be reached for units to become earned. Annualized Distribution Level Two Annualized Distribution Probable of Occurring Annualized distribution probable of occurring (in dollars per share) Annualized distribution probable of occurring for which a portion of the liability for awards based on performance levels is accrued. Annualized Distribution Threshold for Vesting of Distribution Equivalent Rights Associated with Awards Annualized distribution threshold for vesting of DERs (in dollars per share) Represents the annualized distribution required for vesting of distribution equivalent rights associated with awards. Annualized Distribution Threshold Increase Number of Tranches Number of tranches for which annualized distribution threshold was increased Represents the number of tranches for which the annual distribution threshold was increased. Other ranges of annualized vesting distribution This element represents the other ranges of annualized distribution level. Annualized Vesting Distribution Other Range [Member] This element represents the annualized range of the distribution of long term incentive plan unit. Annualized Vesting Distribution Range [Member] Annualized range of distribution Represents the area of land affected due to release of crude oil. Area of Site Affected Due to Crude Oil Release Area of land affected due to crude oil release (in acres) Asset Impairment Charges [Line Items] Impairments Asset Impairment Charges [Table] Tabular disclosure pertaining to impairments of long-lived assets. Average Crude Oil Basis LLS and WTI Swaps Differential Hedges [Member] Average LLS/WTI crude oil basis futures Represents the derivative instruments in average spread position consisting of LLS/WTI crude oil basis swaps, which hedge anticipated sales of crude oil. Represents the long-term incentive plan awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2016. Awards with A Minimum Vesting Date of August 2016 [Member] Awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2016 Awards with A Minimum Vesting Date of August 2017 [Member] Awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2017 Represents the long-term incentive plan awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2017. Awards with A Minimum Vesting Date of August 2018 [Member] Awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2018 Represents the long-term incentive plan awards with a minimum vesting date of August 2018. Awards with Vesting Date August 2018 [Member] Awards with a vesting date of August 2018 Represents long-term incentive plan awards with a vesting date of August 2018. Awards with a vesting date of August 2019 Represents long-term incentive plan awards with a vesting date of August 2019. Awards with Vesting Date August 2019 [Member] Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Axis] Information by basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit. Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Domain] Income statement items computed for basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit. Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share [Line Items] Basic and diluted earnings per share The amount of earnings for the period available to each limited partner unit outstanding during the reporting period. Basic Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit [Member] Basic Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit Bay Area Air Quality Management District [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Bay Area Air Quality Management District Notices for Alleged Violations Bay Springs Pipeline Represents the Bay Springs Pipeline, Mississippi. Bay Springs Pipe line [Member] BP NGL Acquisition [Member] BP NGL Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of BP Canada Energy Company. Business Acquisition Aggregate Capacity of Crude Oil Rail Terminals Acquired Aggregate capacity of rail terminals acquired (in barrels per day) Represents the aggregate capacity of rail terminals acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels per day. Business Acquisition, Aggregate Capacity of Fractionation Plants Acquired Annualized NGL fractionation volumes of plants acquired (in barrels per day) Represents the aggregate capacity of fractionation plants acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels per day. Business Acquisition Aggregate Capacity of Straddle and Field Gas Processing Plants Acquired Aggregate capacity of straddle and field gas processing plants acquired (in Mcf per day) Represents the aggregate capacity of straddle and field gas processing plants acquired in a business combination, expressed in Bcf per day. Business Acquisition, Contractual Rights Related to NGL Pipelines Acquired Contractual rights related to NGL pipelines acquired (in miles) Represents the contractual rights related to the NGL pipelines acquired in business combination, expressed in miles of pipeline. Purchase price net of cash and other working capital acquired Represents an aggregate purchase price of acquired entity net of cash and other working capital acquired. Business Acquisition, Cost of Acquired Entity Purchase Price, Net of Cash and Other Working Capital Acquired Business Acquisition, Diameter of Pipelines, Acquired Diameter of pipeline acquired (in inches) This element represents the diameter of the pipeline acquired. Business Acquisition, Inventory Volumes The volumes of inventory acquired in a business acquisition. Inventory (volumes in barrels) Business Acquisition Long Term and Seasonal Inventories Acquired Long-term and seasonal NGL inventories acquired (in barrels) Represents the long-term and seasonal NGL inventories acquired in a business combination, expressed in barrels. Represents the NGL storage capacity acquired in business combination, expressed in barrels. Business Acquisition, NGL Storage Capacity Acquired Net usable NGL storage capacity acquired (in barrels) Business Acquisition, Number of Field Gas Processing Plants Acquired Number of field gas processing plants acquired Represents the number of field gas processing plants acquired in a business combination. Business Acquisition, Number of Fractionation Plants Acquired Number of fractionation plants acquired Represents the number of fractionation plants acquired in a business combination. Business Acquisition Number of Operating Crude Oil Rail Terminals Acquired Number of operating crude oil rail terminals acquired Represents the number of operating crude oil rail terminals acquired in a business acquisition. Business Acquisition, Number of Rail Cars under Long Term Leases Acquired Number of rail cars under long-term leases acquired Represents the number of rail cars under the long-term leases acquired in a business combination. Represents the number of straddle plants acquired in a business combination. Business Acquisition, Number of Straddle Plants Acquired Number of straddle plants acquired Number of terminals under development acquired Represents the number of terminals under development acquired in a business acquisition. Business Acquisition Number of Terminals under Development Acquired Business Acquisition, Number of Transactions Completed Number of transactions completed Represents the number of transactions completed during the period. Business Acquisition, Number of Truck Terminals, Acquired Number of truck terminals acquired This element represents the number of truck terminals acquired in business acquisition. Business Acquisition, Pipelines Acquired Pipelines acquired (in miles) The pipelines acquired in a business combination, expressed in miles of pipeline. Net proceeds from issuance of common units and senior notes Business Acquisition Proceeds from Issuance of Common Units and Senior Notes Used to Pre Fund Acquisition Represents the net proceeds from issuance of common units and senior notes used to prefund an acquisition. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Adjustment, Amount Received Purchase price adjustment amount received for future costs Represents the purchase price adjustment amount received to fund anticipated facility development and other related costs identified subsequent to closing of the acquisition. Contracts value included in amortizable intangible assets Represents the amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to a contract value included in amortizable intangible assets. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Contract Included in Amortizable Intangible Assets Imputed interest The amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to imputed interest. Business Acquisition Purchase Price Allocation Imputed Interest 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, 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 Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Allocation Tax Abatement Included in Amortizable Intangible Assets Tax abatement included in amortizable intangible assets Represents the amount of acquisition cost of a business combination allocated to a tax abatement included in amortizable intangible assets. Escrowed purchase price Represents the amount of the purchase price that was escrowed at closing. Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Escrowed Business Acquisition, Purchase Price Escrowed, Percentage Percentage of remaining purchase price Represents the remaining percentage of purchase price that was escrowed at closing. Pro forma, limited partner interest in net income attributable to Plains The pro forma net Income or Loss for the period as if the business combination or combinations allocated to limited partners. Business Acquisitions Pro Forma Net Income (Loss) Allocated to Limited Partners Business Acquisition Throughput Capacity of Third Party Straddle Plant Long Term Contract Acquired Throughput capacity of third-party straddle plant long-term contract acquired (in Mcf per day) Represents the throughput capacity of a third-party straddle plant with which a long-term supply contract is held through a business combination, expressed in Bcf per day. Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Base Gas Amount of base gas recognized as of the acquisition date. Base Gas Environmental liability Amount of environmental liability recognized as of the acquisition date. Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Environmental Liability Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Linefill Amount of linefill recognized as of the acquisition date. Linefill Long-term inventory Amount of long-term inventory recognized as of the acquisition date. Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Long Term Inventory Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Other Working Capital Including Cash Acquired Other working capital (including cash acquired) Amount of other working capital including cash acquired recognized as of the acquisition date. Working capital Amount of working capital recognized as of the acquisition date. Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Working Capital Butane WTI Spread Positions [Member] Butane/WTI spread positions Represents the derivative instruments in spread positions that hedge specific butane sales contacts that are priced as a percentage of WTI. The investment in Butte Pipe Line Company (Butte), a crude oil pipeline company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Butte Pipe Line Company Butte Pipeline Company [Member] Represents the Canadian sub-facility of the PAGP senior unsecured revolving credit facility that is used for Canadian borrowings. Canadian sub-facility Canadian Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Capital expenditures Expenditures made to expand the existing operating and/or earnings capacity of our assets. Capital Expenditure Capital Expenditures Related to Assets Acquired Capital expenditures related to acquisition Capital expenditures incurred to date that were funded by amounts received through an adjustment to the business acquisition purchase price for anticipated future development and other related costs identified subsequent to closing of the acquisition. Represents the information pertaining to Capline and associated Tankage. Capline And associated Tankage Capline and Associated Tankage [Member] Number of cases filed during the period Cases Filed Number During Period The total number of cases filed during the period. 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. Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified in Year Two and Three Gain (loss) expected to be reclassified to earnings prior to 2016 The estimated net amount of existing gains or losses on cash flow hedges at the reporting date expected to be reclassified to earnings through 2045. Cash Flow Hedge Gain (Loss) to be Reclassified Remaining Portion Gain/(loss) expected to be reclassified to earnings through 2045 Cash paid for purchases of linefill and base gas Cash Paid Related To Purchases of Linefill and Base Gas The cash outflow associated with the purchase of linefill and base gas. Cash received for sales of linefill and base gas Cash Received Related to Sales of Linefill and Base Gas The cash inflow associated with the sale of linefill and base gas. Change in Accounting Estimate of Depreciable Lives Incremental Depreciation Expense Reduction The incremental reduction in depreciation expense due to an increase in the accounting estimate of useful lives. Incremental reduction in depreciation expense due to depreciable life extensions Commissions paid Commission Paid to Sales Agent Represents the costs incurred for commissions paid to the agent under the equity distribution agreement. Class A Shares Represents the classification of common shares representing limited partner interests in the company that are held by the public. Class A shareholders have equal voting rights with Class B shareholders and are entitled to receive distributions should distributions be paid by the company. Common Shares Class A [Member] Represents the classification of common shares representing limited partner interests in the company that are not held by the public. Class B shareholders have equal voting rights with Class A shareholders but are not entitled to receive distributions. Common Shares Class B [Member] Class B Shares Represents the information pertaining to common units and Series A subordinated units. Common Unit and Series A Subordinated Unit [Member] Common and Series A Subordinated Unit Subtotal Common Units [Member] Common Units Represents activity related to common units which are a type of ownership interest in a corporation. Computation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Table] Schedule reflecting the computation of basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit. ConocoPhillips Company [Member] Represents the information pertaining to ConocoPhillips Company. ConocoPhillips Company Consolidated Delaware Action Consolidated Delaware Action [Member] Represents the information pertaining to class action lawsuits filed in the Delaware Court of Chancery on behalf of PNG unitholders challenging the PNG Merger. Consolidated Federal Action Consolidated Federal Action [Member] Represents the information pertaining to class action lawsuits filed in the Texas federal court on behalf of PNG unitholders challenging the PNG Merger. Consolidated Texas Action Consolidated Texas Action [Member] Represents the information pertaining to class action lawsuits filed in the Texas state court on behalf of PNG unitholders challenging the PNG Merger. PAA common units expected to be issued in exchange for outstanding PNG common units (in units) Represents the units issued or issuable by the parent in exchange for all equity interests in a subsidiary owned by other than the parent entity. Consolidation Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary Parent Ownership Interest Changes Purchase of Interest by Parent Shares Issued or Issuable Consolidation Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary Parent Ownership Interest Changes Purchase of Interest by Parent Shares Issued or Issuable Value Value of PAA common units expected to be issued in exchange for outstanding PNG common units Schedule of changes made to holdings in limited partner units of PNG result of modification If the parent's ownership interest in a subsidiary changes during the period, this element may be used for the complete disclosure requirement to present a separate schedule showing the effects of any changes in a parent's ownership interest in a subsidiary on the equity attributable to the parent. Consolidation, Less than Wholly Owned Subsidiary, Parent Ownership Interest, Effects of Modification, Net [Table Text Block] Contributions from noncontrolling interests related to PAA common unit issuances Amount of contributions received in the current period or to be received in future periods for events requiring contribution that occurred during the current period. Contributions Received or to be Received Conversion Natural Gas to Crude Barrels Divisor Number used to divide into natural gas volumes to convert to barrels Represents the number to be divided into the amount in cubic feet of natural gas volumes in order to convert the volumes to barrels. Conversion of Subordinated Units, Number of Consecutive Quarters of Distribution Required Number of consecutive quarters of cash distribution This element represents the number of consecutive quarters for which a quarterly cash distribution is paid. 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 This element represents the number of consecutive years for which the distribution and earnings thresholds must be met for four non-overlapping a quarterly periods. Number of consecutive years for which the distribution and earnings thresholds must be met for four consecutive non-overlapping quarters Conversion of Subordinated Units Number of Consecutive Years of Reaching Required Thresholds Conversion of Subordinated Units Number of Non Overlapping Quarters of Distribution and Earnings Thresholds Required This element represents the number of non-overlapping quarters for which a quarterly cash distribution is paid and earnings thresholds are met. Number of non-overlapping quarters for which cash distribution and earnings thresholds must be met Series B subordinated units that will convert into Series A subordinated units 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. Conversion of subordinated units, terms Conversion of Subordinated Unit to Common Units Terms This element specifies the terms of conversion of subordinated units into common units. Extension period Credit Extension Period Period for which credit facility or term loan may be extended provided for under the credit agreement. Represents the length of crude oil and condensate pipeline in miles. Crude Oil and Condensate Pipeline Miles Crude oil and condensate pipeline (in miles) Crude oil grade spread positions related to anticipated purchases and sales of crude oil Crude Oil Basis Differential Hedges [Member] Represents the derivative instruments consisting of WTS/WTI crude oil basis swaps, which hedge anticipated sales of crude oil (WTI). Crude Oil Basis LLS and WTI Swaps Differential Hedges [Member] Represents the derivative instruments consisting of LLS/WTI crude oil basis swaps, which hedge anticipated sales of crude oil. LLS/WTI crude oil basis futures PLA Crude oil long put option position Crude Oil Futures and Swaps Long Put Option [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a long put option position. Maximum borrowing capacity of loan before amendment Debit Instrument Carrying Amount Before Amendment Debit instrument carrying amount before amendment under the credit agreement. Represents the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained during acquisition period under credit facility. Debt Instrument, Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Acquisition Period Maximum Ratio of debt-to-EBITDA during acquisition period, maximum Represents the maximum ratio of debt to EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) required to be maintained under credit facility. Debt Instrument, Coverage Ratio Debt to EBITDA Maximum Coverage ratio of debt-to-EBITDA, maximum Debt Instrument Coverage Ratio EBITDA to Interest Minimum Coverage ratio of EBITDA-to-interest, minimum Represents the minimum ratio of EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization) to Interest required to be maintained under financial covenants. Debt Instrument Leverage Ratio Maximum Leverage Ratio Represents the maximum ratio of leverage ratio required to be maintained under credit facility. Investment in partnerships Deferred Tax Assets Investments in Subsidiaries Amount before allocation of valuation allowances of deferred tax asset attributable to deductible temporary differences from the entity's investment in its subsidiaries. Denominator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Abstract] Denominator for Basic and Diluted Net Income per Limited Partner Unit: Denominator for Diluted Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Denominator for diluted net income per Class A share Depreciation and amortization Depreciation and amortization Depreciation, Depletion, Amortization and Impairment The aggregate expense recognized in the current period that allocates the cost of tangible assets, intangible assets, or depleting assets to periods that benefit from use of the assets, and the charges against earnings resulting from the aggregate write-down of all assets from their carrying value to their fair value. Diluted Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit The amount of earnings per diluted limited partner unit during the reporting period. Diluted Net Income Per Limited Partner Unit [Member] Distribution Equivalent Right Payments Distribution equivalent right payments made and obligations for future payments. Distribution equivalent right payments Aggregate cash payments made towards distribution equivalent rights during the reporting period that have been earned by satisfying service and performance requirements. Distribution Equivalent Rights Cash Payments DER cash payments Distribution Made to Limited Partner Period Considered for Pro Rata Distributions Period considered for pro-rata distribution Represents the period considered for pro-rata cash distributions to unit-holder of a limited partnership (LP). 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. 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) Distribution of Proceeds from Initial Public Offering Distribution of net proceeds of initial public offering Decrease in partners' capital from the distribution of the net proceeds received from the intitial public offering of the entity. Distribution of Proceeds from Issuance Initial Public Offering Distribution of proceeds received from initial public offering (Note 10) Represents the cash outflow due to distribution of proceeds received from initial public offering. Distributions and Excess over Minimum Quarterly Distribution [Domain] Disclosure of per unit incentive cash distributions declared and paid to the general partner 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 incentive cash distributions declared and paid to the general partner during the accounting period, including the disclosure of the per unit excess over minimum quarterly distributions ("MQD"). The threshold limit beyond which the holders of the awards are entitled to participate in distributions, if the entity makes such distributions. Distribution Threshold for Participation in Distributions Threshold on distributions paid for participation in award Represents the long-term incentive plan awards that vest upon achieving distribution threshold one. Distribution Vesting Threshold One [Member] Distribution threshold one Represents the long-term incentive plan awards that vest upon achieving distribution threshold three. Distribution Vesting Threshold Three [Member] Distribution threshold three Distribution Vesting Threshold Two [Member] Distribution threshold two Represents the long-term incentive plan awards that vest upon achieving distribution threshold two. Document and Entity Information Represents information pertaining to the crude oil rail loading terminals located in Eagle Ford, Bakken and Niobrara. Eagle Ford Bakken and Niobrara [Member] Eagle Ford, Bakken and Niobrara Intangible assets representing the value of the entity's capitalized costs related to acquiring emission credits. Emission reduction credits Emission Reduction Credits [Member] Employees and Directors Long Term Incentive Plan Employees and Directors Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] This element represents the long-term incentive plans offered to the employees and directors of the entity. Rainbow Pipeline total release costs, excluding lost revenue Represents the subsequent revised total costs associated with the release (excluding lost revenue) based on costs incurred, as well as additional information concerning requirements for environmental restoration and remediation. Environmental Loss Contingency Estimate of Total Costs Excluding Lost Revenue Rainbow Pipeline total release costs, including lost revenue Represents the initial estimated total costs, including the lost revenue associated with the release, and excluding insurance recoveries, fines and penalties. Environmental Loss Contingency Estimate of Total Costs Including Lost Revenue Environmental Remediation Cash Expenditures Period in Years Actual cash expenditures for environmental liabilities, period paid The range of the estimated period of time when actual cash expenditures are made for environmental liabilities, as stated in years. 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. Environmental Remediation Costs, Business Seller Share The number of truck terminals for which an Environmental Protection Agency request for information was received. EPA Request for Information, Number of Truck Terminals Number of truck terminals for which an EPA request for information was received Equity Awards Incentive compensation equity awards awarded to employees consisting of a stated number of phantom shares or units. Equity Awards [Member] Equity-indexed Compensation Plan Fair Value Amortization Equity Based Compensation Fair Value Future Amortization [Abstract] Thereafter The amount of amortization expense expected to be recognized after 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 after Year Five Equity Based Compensation Fair Value Future Amortization Expense Year Five 2018 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 Year Four 2017 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 One 2014 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. 2016 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 Three Equity Based Compensation Fair Value Future Amortization Expense Year Two 2015 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 Plan AAP Management Units [Member] AAP Management Units Represents information pertaining to the AAP management units reported by a business entity. Equity Based Compensation Plan Class B [Policy Text Block] AAP LP Class B Units Equity Compensation Disclosure of accounting policy for equity-based compensation plan of the general partner associated with Class B units. AAP units AAP LP Class B Units Equity Based Compensation Plan Class B Units of Plains AAPLP [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the class B units of Plains AAP, L.P. reported by a business entity. 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. Estimated Potential Cost of Environmental Remediation pagp's share of estimated potential cost of environmental remediation as relates to a particular environmental action. This amount is only an approximation and may be higher or lower depending on the nature and extent of the cleanup. pagp's share of estimated potential cost of environmental remediation Estimated Potential Cost of Environmental Remediation Allocated Estimated Size of Release Estimated size of release (in barrels) Represents the estimated size of the pipeline release. Estimated volume of crude oil released (in barrels) Represents the current estimated volume of crude oil released. Estimated Volume of Crude Oil Released This element represents the amount of expense during the current period for withholding taxes. Canadian withholding taxes Expense for Withholding Taxes ExxonMobil Corporation [Member] ExxonMobil Corporation Represents information pertaining to ExxonMobil Corporation. Reconciliation of changes in fair value of derivatives classified as level 3 Tabular disclosure of 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 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), and gains or losses recognized in other comprehensive income (loss) and a description of where those gains or losses included in earnings (or changes in net assets) are reported in the statement of income (or activities); (2) purchases, sales, issues, and settlements (each type disclosed separately); and (3) transfers in and transfers out of Level 3 (for example, transfers due to changes in the observability of significant inputs) by class of asset and liability. Fair Value Assets, Liabilities Measured on Recurring Basis Unobservable Input Reconciliation [Text Block] Derivatives entered into during the period in relation to assets and liabilities measured at fair value and categorized within Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. Fair Value Measurement with Unobservable Inputs, Reconciliation, Recurring Basis Assets (Liabilities) Derivative Entered into Derivatives entered into during the period 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). Field Operating Costs and General and Administrative Expenses 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 Segment [Member] Costs related to site and field operations during the period. Field Operating costs Five Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] 5 forward starting interest rate swaps (30-year) Represents five forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Fixed rate senior notes Fixed Rate Senior Notes [Member] Represents the fixed rate senior notes. PAA's fixed rate senior notes 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 Exchange Forward Contract Maturing in 2013 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts, which is maturing in 2013. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract Maturing in 2013 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contract Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts Maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts, which is maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Maturing in 2013 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2013. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.03 Maturing in 2013 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.03 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.03 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.04 Maturing in 2015 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 maturing in 2015. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 Maturing in 2015 Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD at The Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 Maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that Exchange CAD for USD at The Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange CAD for USD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.07 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.07 Maturing in 2015 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange CAD for USD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.07 maturing in 2015. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that Exchange USD for CAD at The Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05 Maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05 maturing in 2014. Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate of USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that Exchange USD for CAD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.05 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 maturing in 2015. Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts That Exchange USD for CAD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.06 Maturing in 2015 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.06 Maturing in 2015 Foreign Exchange Forward Contract That Exchange USD for CAD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.03 Maturing in 2013 [Member] Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 maturing in 2013. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract that exchange USD for CAD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Maturing in 2013 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate of USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract That Exchange USD for CAD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.03 [Member] Foreign Exchange Forward Contract that exchange USD for CAD at the Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.03 Foreign Exchange Forward Contract that exchange USD for CAD at The Rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 Maturing in 2014 Represents the foreign exchange forward contracts that exchange USD for CAD at the rate USD 1.00 to CAD 1.04 maturing in 2014. Foreign Exchange Forward Contract That Exchange USD for CAD At the Rate USD 1.00 To CAD 1.04 Maturing in 2014 [Member] Foreign Income Tax Expense (Benefit) at Foreign Statutory Rate Canadian federal and provincial income taxes 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. Foreign Period Tax on Book Versus Tax Differences Canadian period tax adjustments resulting from tax rate changes and tax return filings The temporary book versus tax differences in the current foreign income tax expense/benefit. The permanent 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 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. Represents forward starting interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Forward Starting Interest Rate Swap [Member] Forward starting interest rate swaps Forward starting interest rate swaps terminated in January 2011 Four Forward Starting Ten Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] 4 forward starting interest rate swaps (10-year) Represents the four forward starting 10-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Fourth Quarter Distribution FY 2013 [Member] Fourth quarter distribution Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid, beginning after the fourth full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. The investment in Frontier Pipeline Company (Frontier), a crude oil pipeline company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Frontier Pipeline Company Frontier Pipeline Company [Member] Gain (Loss) on Foreign Currency Cash Flow Hedges, Pretax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Net deferred gains from currency risk rate hedging included in AOCI This element represents the pre-tax gain or loss on open and settled foreign currency cash flow hedges, which are included in AOCI. Gain (Loss) on Interest Rate Cash Flow Hedges, Pretax Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income Amount of gain or loss related to open and terminated interest rate derivatives that were designated for hedge accounting. Net deferred gains/(losses) from interest rate risk hedging included in AOCI 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 and base gas The difference between the sale price and book value of linefill and base gas that was sold during the reporting period. Gain (Loss) on Sale of Linefill and Base Gas Gain on sales of linefill and base gas Gardendale Gathering System Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Gardendale Gathering System. Gardendale Gathering System Acquisition [Member] General Parnter Units [Member] General partner units Represents the units of the general partner of the reporting entity. The percentage of the distribution amount the over the threshold that the general partner is entitled to as incentive distributions and distributions related to its general partner interest. General Partner Distribution Including Incentive Distribution Percentage Percent of distribution amount to the general partner above threshold Percent of distribution amount to the general partner before incentive distributions General Partner Distribution Percentage The percentage of the distribution that the general partner is entitled to based on its ownership. General Partner Expense [Policy Text Block] Reimbursement of Expenses of Our General Partner and its Affiliates Disclosure of accounting policy for direct and indirect costs incurred on behalf of the reporting company by its general partner. General Partner Incentive Distribution Paid or to be Paid Based on Current Period Earnings Amount of incentive distribution paid or to be paid to the general partner based on current period earnings. Less: General partner's incentive distribution General Partner Incentive Distribution Threshold Quarterly incentive distribution threshold amount (in dollars per unit) The threshold over which the general partner is entitled to receive a percentage of the distribution amount as incentive distributions. Less: General partner 2% ownership The general partner's ownership allocation of net income attributable to the parent after the incentive distribution is paid. General Partner Ownership Interest in Net Income (Loss) after Incentive Distribution Purchase price accounting adjustments and other Represents the purchase price accounting adjustments and other required to revise the carrying amount of goodwill to fair value. Goodwill Purchase Price Accounting and Other Adjustments Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding AAP Management Units [Roll Forward] Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding AAP Management Units: Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units [Roll Forward] Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding Class B Units: Gross Margin Gross margin Represents the total revenues less purchases and related costs, field operating costs and depreciation and amortization. Hedged Transactions probable of not occurring Derivative instruments for which anticipated hedged transactions are probable of not occurring. Hedged Transactions Probable of Not Occurring [Member] Represents PAGP senior unsecured revolving credit facility which will was scheduled to mature in 2012 but was terminated in July 2012. Terminated PAGP senior unsecured revolving credit facility maturing in July 2012 Inactive Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility Maturing in 2012 [Member] Inactive Three Hundred Sixty Four Day Senior Unsecured Credit Facility [Member] Represents the 364-day senior unsecured credit facility that was originated in December 2011 and currently has not been activated. Terminated PAGP senior unsecured 364-day revolving credit agreement Income (Loss) from Continuing Operations Before Income Taxes Extraordinary Items But After Deducting Income and Taxes Attributable To Noncontrolling Interest Income before tax after deducting net income and taxes attributable to noncontrolling interest This element represents the income or loss from continuing operations attributable to the economic entity which may also be defined as revenue less expenses from ongoing operations, after income or loss from equity method investments and deducting income and income taxes attributable to noncontrolling interests, but before income taxes and extraordinary items. Income Not Subject to Foreign Tax Partnership earnings not subject to current Canadian tax The earnings of the entity which are not subject to foreign enacted tax laws. Income Subject to Foreign Tax The earnings of the entity which are subject to foreign enacted tax laws. Partnership earnings subject to current Canadian tax Income Taxes Attributable to Noncontrolling Interest Income taxes attributable to noncontrolling interest Represents the amount of taxes on income attributable to noncontrolling interest. Income Tax [Line Items] Net deferred tax assets / (liabilities): Income Tax [Table] Schedule reflecting pertinent information related to income taxes. Increase (Decrease) in Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income 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 in net deferred taxes liabilities Represents the amount of increase (decrease) in net deferred taxes liability. Increase (Decrease) in Net Deferred Tax Liability Increase (Decrease) in Partners' Capital and Members' Equity Increase Decrease in Partners Capital and Members Equity [Roll Forward] A roll forward is a reconciliation of a concept from the beginning of a period to the end of a period. Incremental net income attributable to PAGP resulting from assumed conversion of units Represents amount of increase (decrease) to net income used for calculating diluted earnings per share (EPS) allocated to limited partners, resulting from the assumed exercise of dilutive convertible securities. Incremental Net Income (Loss) from Assumed Conversion of Units Indirect Ownership Interest in Entity [Member] Indirect Ownership Holder of an indirect ownership interest in a partnership. Interest expense related to hedged inventory The interest expense incurred related to hedged inventory, which is included in segment profit. Interest Expense Hedged Inventory Inventory by Category [Abstract] Inventory by category Inventory, Current and Noncurrent This element represents the aggregate of current and non-current inventory. Total Inventory, Linefill and Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Inventory, Linefill and Base Gas and Long-term Inventory Inventory Linefill and Base Gas and Long Term Inventory Disclosure [Text Block] 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. Inventory Related Disclosures [Abstract] Inventory-related disclosures Schedule disclosing the various components of inventory. Inventory [Table] Inventory, Volumes (in barrels or in Mcf) The volume of current inventory as of the balance sheet date. Inventory, Volumes Current 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 in Mcf) Inventory, Volumes, Noncurrent The volume of noncurrent inventory as of the balance sheet date. Long-term inventory, Volumes (in barrels or Mcf) 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) IPO, Sale of Stock, Number of Shares Issued at Closing over Allotment Option The number of shares issued or sold by the subsidiary or equity method investee per stock transaction at closing of the IPO pursuant to the full exercise of the underwriters' over-allotment option. Number of common units issued at closing of the IPO pursuant to the full exercise of the Underwriter's over-allotment option Kemp River Pipeline Release [Member] Kemp River Pipeline Release Represents the Kemp River Pipeline located in Northern Alberta, Canada. Land and Other [Member] This element represents the real estate assets held for productive use and related non-depreciable assets. Land and other Represents the Length of pipeline isolated and depressurized to conduct clean-up operations. Length of Pipeline Isolated and Depressurized Length of Pipeline Isolated and Depressurized (in miles) Liabilities for Outstanding Checks Outstanding checks that were reclassified from cash and cash equivalents to be included in accounts payable Liability as of the balance sheet date of outstanding checks that were reclassified from cash and cash equivalents to accounts payable and accrued liabilities. Liability Awards [Member] Liability Awards Incentive compensation liability awards awarded to employees consisting of a stated number of phantom shares or units. The number of units owned of the limited partnership representing limited partner interests. Limited Liability Company LLC or Limited Partnership LP Members or Limited Partners Ownership Interest Units Number of AAP units owned Limited Partners Capital Account Shares Issued in Exchange Shares issued in connection with exchanges Represents the number of shares issued in connection with share and unit exchanges. Shares or units exchanged for Class A shares Shares or units exchanged for Class A shares Represents the number of units or shares exchanged for another class of shares of the reporting entity. This element represents the gross unit price per capital unit. Limited Partners Unit Price, Per Unit Gross Unit Price (in dollars per unit) Linefill and Base Gas Crude oil, refined products, and NGL linefill in pipelines and base gas in 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 Linefill and Base Gas Volumetric Ratio of Mcf of Natural Gas to Btu Minimum Ratio of Mcf of natural gas to crude Btu Represents the minimum ratio of Mcf of natural gas to crude Btu. Line of Credit and Commercial Paper [Member] Credit agreements and PAA commercial paper program Represents information pertaining to the credit agreements and commercial paper program of the subsidiaries of the entity. Line of Credit Facility Maximum Borrowing Capacity before Amendment Maximum borrowing capacity of credit facility before amendment Maximum borrowing capacity before amendment under the credit facility without consideration of any current restrictions on the amount that could be borrowed or the amounts currently outstanding under the facility. Long natural gas position for natural gas purchases Long Position on Natural Gas Contracts [Member] Represents derivative instruments consisting of long natural gas position related to purchase of natural gas. Long Power Position for Power Supply Requirements Contracts [Member] Long power position for power supply requirements Represents the derivative instruments consisting of long power positions which hedge a portion of power supply requirements. Long Term Debt Weighted Average Life Weighted-average life of long-term debt This element represents the weighted-average life of long-term debt. Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] PAGP Plan Represents information pertaining to the Long-Term Incentive Plan of the reporting entity. Long Term Incentive Plans [Member] 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. PAA Long-term Incentive Plan Awards PAGP LTIP Long Term Obligations Excluded from Calculation of Maturities Long-term obligations and excluded from aggregate maturities. Other long-term obligations excluded from debt maturities Commitment to environmental project Represents the commitment to an environmental project. Loss Contingency Commitment for Environment Project Penalty or fines assessed Loss Contingency Penalty Assessed Represents the penalty or fine assessed on the entity in connection with an environmental matter. Provision for penalty paid as a result of decree that was approved by the court. Loss Contingency Provision for Penalty Paid Provision for penalty paid 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. Maintenance capital Maintenance Capital Marathon Petroleum Corporation [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Marathon Petroleum Corporation. Marathon Petroleum Corporation Maturity Date Extension Period Period of extension of credit facility maturity date. Maturity date extension Maximum Aggregate Common Stock Offer Price Maximum aggregate offer price of common stock Represents the maximum aggregate offering price to issue and sell common units through a continuous offering program. 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. Maximum Percentage Participation for Distribution in Excess of Threshold May 2012 Continuous Offering Program May 2012 Continuous Offering Program [Member] Represents equity distribution agreement pursuant to which issue and sell common units through sales agent under May 2012 continuous offering program. May 2013 Equity Distribution Agreement Represents equity distribution agreement pursuant to which issue and sell common units through sales agent under May 2013 equity distribution agreement. May 2013 Equity Distribution Agreement [Member] Members Equity [Line Items] Members' equity Schedule of members' equity. Members Equity [Table] Working gas storage capacity (in MMcf) 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. Minority Interest Ownership Shares, Held by Noncontrolling Owners PNG units not owned by PAA (in units) The number of shares held by noncontrolling shareholders, partners or other equity holders in consolidated entity. Represents the information pertaining to the obligor of Mississippi Business Finance Corporation gulf Opportunity zone industrial development revenue bonds Series 2009 connection with Southern Pines Acquisition. SG Resources Mississippi, LLC Project, Series 2009 Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Industrial Development Revenue Bonds Series 2009 [Member] Mississippi Business Finance Corporation Gulf Opportunity Zone Industrial Development Revenue Bonds Series 2010 [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the obligor of Mississippi Business Finance Corporation gulf opportunity zone industrial development revenue bonds series 2010 connection with Southern Pines Acquisition. SG Resources Mississippi, LLC Project, Series 2010 The division of modification of holdings by tranches. Modification of Holdings by Tranche [Axis] The division of modification of holdings by different tranches. Modification of Holdings by Tranche [Domain] Modification (in units) Modification of Holdings, Units Modified This element represents modifications made in the series of units as per the amendment and restatement agreement. Post Modification (in units) Modification of Holdings Units, Post Modification This element represents the number of units after the modification in series of units. This element represents the number of units prior to modification in series of units. Prior to Modification (in units) Modification of Holdings Units Prior to Modification The inventory subcategory of natural gas. Natural Gas [Member] Natural gas This element represents information pertaining to the acquisition of the remaining interest in pagp/Vulcan Gas Storage, LLC, (subsequently pagp Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS)). PNGS Acquisition Natural Gas Storage Acquisition [Member] Natural Gas Storage [Member] This element represents information pertaining to pagp Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNGS), a subsidiary of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. PNGS Natural resources contamination - damages settled The settlement amount of litigation damages. Natural Resources Contamination Damages Settled Net Cash (Paid) Received for Terminated Interest Rate and Foreign Currency Hedging Instruments Settlement of terminated interest rate and foreign currency hedging instruments The net cash received (paid) for terminated interest rate and foreign currency hedging instruments. 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 the two-class method for Master Limited Partnerships (MLPs). Net income available to limited partners in accordance with the application of the two-class method for MLPs Basic and Diluted Net Income per Limited Partner Unit Net Income (Loss) Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit Basic and Diluted [Abstract] Net Long Position on Crude Oil Derivative Contracts [Member] Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge risk associated with crude oil activities. Net long position associated with crude oil purchases Net Long Position on Natural Gas Swaps Contracts [Member] Represents derivative instruments consisting of long natural gas futures contracts. Long natural gas position for anticipated base gas requirements Net borrowings/(repayments) under AAP revolving credit facility (Note 9) The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on the revolving credit facility. Net Proceeds from Repayments of Revolving Credit Facilities The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on the senior unsecured revolving credit facility. Net borrowings/(repayments) under PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility (Note 9) Net Proceeds from Repayments of Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facilities The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) on the short-term letter of credit and hedged inventory facility. Net borrowings/(repayments) under PAA senior secured hedged inventory facility (Note 9) Net Proceeds from (Repayments of) Short Term Letter of Credit and Hedged Inventory Facility Net borrowings/(repayments) under PNG credit agreement (Note 9) Net Proceeds from Repayments of Subsidiary Credit Agreement The net cash inflow (outflow) due to borrowings (repayments) under a credit agreement of a consolidated subsidiary of the entity. Net short spread position hedging anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases Net Short Spread Position on Anticipated Crude Oil Lease Gathering Purchase Contracts [Member] Represents the derivative instruments utilized to hedge anticipated crude oil lease gathering purchases. Short natural gas position related to anticipated natural gas sales of owned inventory Short swap position consisting of NYMEX and ICE swaps related to anticipated sales of natural gas. Net Short Swap Position Consisting of NYMEX and ICE Swaps [Member] New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Line Items] Recent accounting pronouncements New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Table] Table representing information pertaining to recent accounting pronouncement. Nexen Acquisition [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Nexen Holdings U.S.A. Inc. Nexen Acquisition NGL The inventory subcategory of natural gas liquids (NGL). NGL [Member] 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. Derivative hedges to manage the risk of not utilizing storage capacity (in barrels per month) Aggregate notional volume of commodity price risk derivatives to hedge the risk of not utilizing storage capacity, represented in barrels per month. Nonmonetary Notional Amount of Price Risk Derivatives Hedged to Manage the Risk of Not Utilizing Non Officer Employee Long Term Incentive Tracking Unit Plan [Member] Represents the long-term incentive tracking unit plan offered to the non-officer employees of the entity. 2006 Plan Nonprorated Annual Distribution [Member] The reporting scenario used to indicate distribution results forecast for a full annual year. Non-prorated Annual Distribution Non-prorated Quarterly Distribution Nonprorated Quarterly Distribution [Member] The reporting scenario used to indicate distribution results forecast for a full quarter Number of Common Units Issued by Right To Receive Per Share of Subsidiary Owned Number of common units which each outstanding common unit of the subsidiary other than that owned by the legal entity received when canceled under the plan of merger. Number of PAA common units issued for each outstanding common unit of PNG Number of common units of the parent which each outstanding common unit of the subsidiary other than that owned by the parent will have the right to receive when canceled under the plan of merger. Number of Common Units of Parent Issuable by Right To Receive Per Share of Subsidiary Owned Number of PAA common units issuable for each outstanding common unit of PNG Number of Days Required for Distribution to Shareholders after End of Quarter Number of days after end of quarter within which distributions must be paid to shareholders The number of days after the end of the relevant quarter within which distributions of available cash must be paid to shareholders. Number of days after end of quarter within which distributions must be paid to unitholders The number of days after the end of the relevant quarter within which distributions of available cash must be paid to unitholders. Number of Days Required for Distribution to Unitholders after End of Quarter Number of Derivatives Held with Credit Risk Related Contingent Features Number of outstanding derivatives containing credit-risk related contingent features Represents the number of outstanding derivatives containing credit risk-related contingent features held by the entity at the reporting date. Represents the number of directors that received awards. Number of Directors that Received Awards Number of directors that received awards Represents number of enforcement actions against Plains Midstream Canada ( PMC ) for failure to comply with certain regulatory requirements in connection with the release. Number of Enforcement Actions Filed Number of enforcement actions Number of Events Resulting in Release Number of events occurred Represents the number of events resulting in pipeline release. Number of Long Term Incentive Plan Consolidated Number of long-term incentive plans consolidated Represents the information pertaining to consolidated long term incentive plans. Represents the number of one-year extensions provided for under the credit facility. Credit facility extensions available Number of One Year Extensions of Revolving Credit Facility 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 Number of potential conversion tranches, before Second Amended and Restated Agreement 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 interest rate swaps that terminated (in contracts) Number of Terminated Interest Rate Swaps The number of terminated interest rate swaps. Represents the number of term loans. Number of Term Loans Number of term loans Number of years sourcing services for gas supply will be provided after acquisition Represents the period for which sourcing services for gas supply will be provided, following the closing of the acquisition. Number of Years Sourcing Services for Gas Supply will be Provided after Acquisition Numerator for Basic and Diluted Net Income per Limited Partner Unit: Numerator for Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Limited Partner Unit [Abstract] Numerator for Diluted Earnings Per Share [Abstract] Numerator for diluted net income per Class A share Occidental Petroleum Corporation [Member] This element represents information pertaining to Occidental Petroleum Corporation (Oxy), a related party of Plains All American Pipeline, LP. Oxy Offsetting Assets (Liabilities) [Line Items] Derivative and financial assets and liabilities subject to offsetting Offsetting Assets (Liabilities) [Table] Disclosure of information about derivative and financial assets/(liabilities) that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements. Oil and Gas Terminal Location [Domain] Represents information by location of crude oil rail terminals. Organization and Basis of Presentation [Line Items] Organization and basis of presentation Organization Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Table] Schedule detailing information related to organization, basis of accounting, or basis of presentation, used to prepare the financial reports of the entity. Represents the information pertaining to other acquisitions made in 2010. Other 2010 Acquisitions Other 2010 Acquisitions [Member] Represents the information pertaining to additional acquisitions made in 2011. Other Acquisitions Other 2011 Acquisitions Other Acquisitions in 2011 [Member] Other Acquisitions in 2012 [Member] Other 2012 Acquisitions Represents information pertaining to additional acquisitions made in 2012. Other Acquisitions [Member] Other 2012 Acquisitions Represents the information pertaining to additional acquisitions. Other acquisitions Intangible assets representing the value of the entity's capitalized costs related to other agreements not otherwise specified. Other agreements Other Agreements [Member] 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). Other assets, gross Other Assets, Noncurrent, Gross Other Comprehensive Income Partnerships Portion of Equity Investee Proportionate share of our unconsolidated entities' other comprehensive income The partnership's proportionate share of changes in accumulated other comprehensive income of an equity method investee. Other Consolidated Equity Compensation Information [Abstract] Other Consolidated Equity-Indexed Compensation Information Other Equity Offerings [Member] Represents other equity distributions, not associated with the Continuous Offering Programs. Other Equity Offerings 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 long-term assets Other Long Term Assets [Member] 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). Other long term liabilities Other Long Term Liabilities [Member] 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. Other Noncurrent Long Term Debt The net amount of other nonoperating income and expense, which does not qualify for separate disclosure on the income statement under materiality guidelines. Other income/(expense), net Other Nonoperating Income (Expense) [Member] Outstanding Units Earned Outstanding Units Earned [Roll Forward] Outstanding Outstanding Units [Roll Forward] PAA Continuous Offering Program Represents the continuous equity offering program of the entity under which common units are sold through equity distribution agreements, of which there may be one or more in effect during the reporting period. PAA Continuous Offering Program [Member] Represents the information pertaining to PAA GP LLC ("GP"). PAA GP LLC PAA GP LLC [Member] Pacific Atlantic Terminals LLC [Member] 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. Plains Products Terminals LLC Pacific Energy Partners LP [Member] This element represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Pacific Energy Partners LP. Pacific Represents the information pertaining to Pacific Pipeline System, LLC. Pacific Pipeline System, LLC Pacific Pipeline System LLC [Member] Partners Capital Account Transfer of Ownership Interest Transfer of ownership interest Represents the change in partners capital accounts related to the transfer of ownership interests. Partners Capital Account Units Sold in Public Offering Over Allotment Option Number of shares issued through exercise of over-allotment option The number of units sold in a public offering through the exercise of an over-allotment option. Partners Capital and Distribution [Line Items] Partners Capital and Distribution Disclosure reflecting information pertaining to Partners' Capital and related distributions. Partners' Capital and Distributions [Table] Outstanding units (in shares) The number of limited partner common units outstanding. Partners Capital Common Unit Holder Units Outstanding Deferred tax asset Represents the increase in partners capital from the deferred tax asset created during the period related to basis differences associated with transfers of ownership. Partners Capital Deferred Tax Asset 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 The inventory subcategory of parts and supplies. Other Parts and Supplies [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Pemex Exploraciony Produccion (PEP). Pemex Exploraciony Produccion (PEP) Pemex Exploraciony Produccion [Member] Percentage Decrease in Distribution Level Vesting Criteria Percentage of reduction in specified distribution level Represents the percentage decrease in the distribution level that must be reached for awards to vest. This element represents the percentage of cash distributed out of available cash. Percentage Distribution of Available Cash Percentage of available cash distributed (as a percent) Represents the percentage of the entity's interest and incentive distribution rights of other entities pledged to secure the credit facility of the entity. Percentage Interest and Rights Pleged to Secure Credit Facility Percentage of pledge to partnership interest Percentage of face value at which senior notes are sold This element represents the percentage of face value of senior notes, at which they are sold. Percentage of Face Value at which Senior Notes are Sold Performance Thresholds [Abstract] Performance Thresholds Per Unit Impact to Net Income (Loss) Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit Basic The per unit impact on basic net income per limited partner unit in the event of allocation of undistributed earnings to incentive distribution rights holders. Basic net income per limited partner unit impact (in dollars per unit) Diluted net income per limited partner unit impact (in dollars per unit) The per unit impact on diluted net income per limited partner unit in the event of allocation of undistributed earnings to incentive distribution rights holders. Per Unit Impact to Net Income (Loss) Per Outstanding Limited Partnership Unit Diluted Phillips 66 Represents the information pertaining to Phillips 66 Company. Phillips 66 Company [Member] PLA crude oil net short position Pipeline Loss Allowance Crude Oil Contract Net Short Position [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a net short position related to pipeline loss allowance for crude oil. PLA Crude oil long call option position Pipeline Loss Allowance Crude Oil Long Call Option [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a long call option position related to pipeline loss allowance for crude oil. Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking and Related Revenues Revenue from the transportation of crude oil, NGL and refined products, primarily on pipelines and trucks, and related activities during the period. Transportation segment revenues Plains AAP LP [Member] AAP Represents the information pertaining to Plains AAP, L.P. ("AAP") in which we owns limited partnership interest. Plains All American 2013 Long Term Incentive Plans [Member] Plains All American 2013 Long Term Incentive Plan Represents information pertaining to Plains All American 2013 long-term incentive plan. PAA 2013 LTIP PAA GP LLC Represents the information pertaining to Plains All American GP LLC in which we owns managing member interest. Plains All American GP LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Plains All American Long-Term Incentive Plan Awards. Plains All American Long Term Incentive Plans [Member] PAA Long-Term Incentive Plan Awards Plains All American Pipeline LP General Partner Distribution Level Four [Member] Level four quarterly general partner incentive distribution. Distribution to AAP - Level Four Level one quarterly general partner incentive distribution. Distribution to AAP - Level One Plains All American Pipeline LP General Partner Distribution Level One [Member] Plains All American Pipeline LP General Partner Distribution Level Three [Member] Level three quarterly general partner incentive distribution. Distribution to AAP - Level Three Level two quarterly general partner incentive distribution. Distribution to AAP - Level Two Plains All American Pipeline LP General Partner Distribution Level Two [Member] PAA Represents the information pertaining to Plains All American Pipeline, L.P. ("PAA") in which AAP hold general partnership interest. Plains All American Pipeline LP [Member] Plains All American PNG Successor Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] PNG Successor LTIP Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC and White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC The investment in Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC and White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC, crude oil companies, which are accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC and White Cliffs Pipeline LLC [Member] The investment in Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC, a crude oil company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Plains Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC [Member] Eagle Ford Pipeline LLC Plains GP Holdings Long Term Incentive Plans [Member] PAGP LTIP Represents information pertaining to Plains GP Holdings, L.P. long-term incentive plan. PNG Class B Units [Member] Represents details pertaining to the PNG Class B units. Class B Units of PNGS GP LLC PNG Continuous Offering Program Represents information pertaining to the PNG Continuous Offering Program. PNG Continuous Offering Program [Member] PNG general partner This element represents information pertaining to the general partner of 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 General Partner [Member] PNGGO Bond Term Loans [Member] Represents the GO Bond term loans of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG GO Bond term loans PNG Long Term Incentive Plan Awards [Member] PNG LTIP Awards Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. PNG Long Term Incentive Plans [Member] PNG Successor LTIP Represents PNG's long-term incentive plans offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. 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 PNG [Member] PNG Merger [Member] PNG Merger Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition by PAA of all of PNG's publicly-held common units, whereby PNG became a wholly-owned subsidiary of PAA. PNG Senior Unsecured Credit Facility [Member] Represents the senior unsecured credit facility of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG senior unsecured credit facility PNG senior unsecured revolving credit facility maturing in August 2016 PNG senior unsecured revolving credit facility maturing in August 2017 Represents the senior unsecured revolving credit facility of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity, which is provided for under the PNG credit agreement. PNG Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] PNG senior unsecured revolving credit facility PNG senior unsecured credit facility PNG Term Loan One PNG Term Loan One [Member] Represents term loan one of two of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG Term Loan Two PNG Term Loan Two [Member] Represents term loan two of two of PAA Natural Gas Storage, LLC (PNG), a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PNG Transaction Grants [Member] PNG Transaction Grants Represents PNG Transaction Grants offered to employees, directors and consultants of the entity. Represents the portion of units for which performance thresholds were altered by an amended and restated agreement. Portion of Units for which Performance Thresholds Modified Portion of Series B subordinated units for which performance thresholds modified Previous Long Term Incentive Plan [Member] Previous plans Represents information pertaining to previous long-term incentive plan awards. Proceeds from Sale of Linefill Proceeds from sale of linefill This element represents the cash inflow that is associated with sale of linefill during the reporting period. Proceeds from Term Loan Proceeds from AAP term loan (Note 9) The cash inflow from AAP term loan having maturity due after one year or beyond the operating cycle, if longer. Intangible asset representing the value of the entity's property tax abatement. Property tax abatement Property Tax Abatement [Member] 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. Purchase of Stock, Parent Percentage of Ownership in Subsidiary Contributed in Offering Equity interest in PNGS contributed to PNG (as a percent) Purchases and Related Costs. Costs related to the purchase of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from gathering and marketing activities. Purchases and related costs Purchases and Related Costs [Member] Costs related to the purchase of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from gathering and marketing activities. Purchases and related costs 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. Purchases and Related Costs Purchases and Related Costs [Policy Text Block] Rail Terminal Location [Axis] Information by location of oil and gas terminal. Rainbow Rainbow Pipeline Company [Member] This element represents information pertaining to the acquisition of Rainbow Pipe Line Company. Rainbow Pipeline [Member] Represents the Rainbow pipeline located in Alberta, Canada. Rainbow pipeline Rangeland Pipeline Release [Member] Rangeland Pipeline Release Represents the Rangeland pipeline located near Sundre, Alberta, Canada. Range of Annualized Vesting Distribution Amount Dollars from 1.35 to Dollars 1.55 [Member] We have considered "RangeOfAnnualizedVestingDistributionAmountDollarsFrom1.35ToDollars1.55Member" from dupe to capture the table values with respect to vesting units and units outstanding, as we do not have any other member. Range of annualized vesting distribution amount from $1.35 to $1.55 Accounts receivable Receivables [Line Items] Receivables [Table] Table presenting information pertaining to receivables. Reconciliation of Operating Profit (Loss) from Segments to Net Income Attributable to Parent [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the reconciliation of total profit or loss from reportable segments, to net income attributable to the parent. Reconciliation of segment profit to net income attributable to PAGP Reduction in All Incentive Distributions The total reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid to the general partner related to acquisitions made. Reduction in incentive distributions related to acquisition, total 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. Reduction in Future Incentive Distributions in Next Twelve Months Reduction in Incentive Distributions Reduction in incentive distributions The total reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid to the general partner during the period. Reduction in Incentive Distributions [Abstract] Reduction in incentive distributions Reduction in Incentive Distributions in 2014 Reduction in incentive distributions in 2014 Represents the reduction in incentive distributions in 2014. Reduction in Incentive Distributions in 2015 Reduction in incentive distributions in 2015 Represents the reduction in incentive distributions in 2015. Reduction in Incentive Distributions in 2016 Reduction in incentive distributions in 2016 Represents the reduction in incentive distributions in 2016. Reduction in Incentive Distributions in after 2016 Reduction in incentive distributions after 2016 Represents the reduction in incentive distributions after 2016. Reduction in Incentive Distributions in February 2014 Reduction in incentive distributions in February 2014 This element represents the reduction in incentive distributions in February 2014. Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter after 2016 Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter after 2016 (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction per quarter in incentive distributions after 2016. Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter after November 2015 (in dollars per quarter) Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter After November 2015 This element represents the reduction in incentive distributions per quarter after November 2015. Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter Current Period Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter for distributions paid during 2013 (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction in incentive distributions per quarter during the year 2013. Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter from May 2014 through November 2015 (in dollars per quarter) Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter from May 2014 Through November 2015 This element represents the reduction per quarter in incentive distributions beginning in May 2014 through November 2015. Reduction in Incentive Distributions Per Quarter in 2016 Reduction in incentive distributions per quarter in 2016 (in dollars per quarter) This element represents the reduction per quarter in incentive distributions in 2016. Reduction in incentive distribution rights Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights [Abstract] Thereafter Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid beginning after the third full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights Thereafter 2014 Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid for the first full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights Year One Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid for the third full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights Year Three 2016 2015 Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid for the second full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. Reduction Per Year in Incentive Distribution Rights Year Two The percentage of ownership interest of related parties in a subsidiary of the entity. Related Party Ownership Interest in Subsidiary Percentage Related party ownership of subisidiary (as a percent) The amount of acquisition-to-date environmental remediation costs incurred by the reporting entity related to a business that was acquired. Remediation Costs Incurred Since Business Acquired Remediation costs incurred since acquisition of a business Aggregate revenues net during the period in the normal course of business. Revenues Net [Member] Revenues Robinson Lake pipeline Robinson Lake Pipeline [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Robinson Lake pipeline acquired as part of the Nexen Acquisition. Rocky Mountain Pipelines System LLC [Member] Represents the information pertaining to Rocky Mountain Pipeline System (RMPS), which was acquired during the Pacific merger. Rocky Mountain Pipeline System LLC (RMPS) The axis of a table defines the relationship between the domain members or categories in the table and the line items or concepts that complete the table of the entity. Sale of Stock [Axis] 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 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) 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) Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Supply and Logistics segment revenues Sales and Related Revenues Sales and Related Revenues [Member] Revenue from the sale of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage during the period, primarily from supply and logistics activities. Supply and Logistics segment revenues Equity offerings of common units Disclosure of capital units issued in equity offerings during the period. Schedule of Capital Units Issued During Period [Table Text Block] Schedule of Changes in Minority Interest in Members Equity [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in the noncontrolling interests in members' equity Tabular disclosure pertaining to the changes in the noncontrolling interests in members' equity during the period. Schedule of Changes in Minority Interest in Partners Capital [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in noncontrolling interests in partners' capital Tabular disclosure pertaining to the changes in the noncontrolling interests in partners' capital during the period. Schedule of Debt Instruments [Table] A table or schedule providing information pertaining to short-term and long-term debt instruments or arrangements, including identification, terms, features, collateral requirements and other information necessary to a fair presentation. Tabular disclosure of the carrying amount as of the balance sheet date of inventory, linefill and base 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. Components of inventory, linefill and base gas and long-term inventory Schedule of Inventory Linefill and Base Gas and Long Term Inventory [Table Text Block] 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. 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 vesting distribution amounts and by the estimated unit vesting date. Schedule of estimated vesting date for PAA long term incentive plan awards outstanding Schedule of Offsetting Assets and Liabilities [Table Text Block] Schedule of derivatives assets and liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including enforceable master netting arrangements Tabular disclosure of derivative and other financial assets and liabilities that are subject to offsetting, including master netting arrangements. Tabular disclosure of operational and financial benchmarks for conversion of series B subordinated units to series A subordinated units. Schedule of Operational and Financial Conditions Necessary for Conversion of Subordinated Units [Table Text Block] Operational and financial benchmarks for conversion of the Series B subordinated units into Series A subordinated units Schedule of Per Unit Impact of Additional Participation in Undistributed Earnings to Earnings Per Unit Basic and Diluted [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure of the per unit impact to basic and diluted net income per limited partner unit in the event of allocation of undistributed earnings to incentive distribution right holders. Undistributed earnings allocation to IDRs impact on basic and diluted earnings per limited partner unit Reduction in incentive distributions related to acquisitions Schedule of Reduction in Incentive Distributions Related to Acquisitions [Table Text Block] Disclosure of reduction in incentive distributions related to acquisitions. Revenues attributable to geographical areas Schedule of Revenues from External Customers by Geographical Areas [Table Text Block] This element may be used to disclose in its entirety revenues from the entity's country of domicile and revenues from foreign countries. Disclosure that sets forth the estimated equity-indexed compensation plan fair value amortization to be recognized as an expense for each of the five succeeding fiscal years. Schedule of Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Fair Value Amortization [Table Text Block] Equity-indexed compensation plan fair value amortization Tabular disclosure of the changes in a particular unit class of the general partner. Includes changes in units reserved for future grants and outstanding units. Schedule of Share Based Compensation Class B Units Award Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of Class B unit awards Schedule of Share Based Compensation Management Units Activity [Table Text Block] Summary of AAP Management Units Tabular disclosure of the changes in equity-indexed compensation plan awards for members of senior management. Includes changes in units reserved for future grants, units outstanding and units earned. Summary of expense recognized and value of vesting related to equity-indexed compensation plans Disclosure that sets forth the equity-indexed compensation plan expense, the fair value of vesting (settled both in units and cash) related to the equity-indexed compensation plans, and the cash payments related to distribution equivalent rights for the period. Schedule of Share Based Payment Awards Expense [Table Text Block] Schedule of changes in outstanding shares since becoming public Schedule of Shares Outstanding Reconciliation [Table Text Block] Tabular disclosure pertaining to changes in outstanding shares since becoming public. The segment of the entity pertaining to the transportation of crude oil and refined products. Transportation Segment Pipeline Tariff Activities Trucking [Member] The segment of the entity pertaining to the sale of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas storage. Supply and Logistics Segment Sales and Logistics [Member] Segment Storage Terminalling Processing [Member] The segment of the entity pertaining to the storing, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas. Facilities Senior Notes Due 2023 at 3.85 Percent [Member] 3.85% senior notes due 2023 3.85% senior notes due October 2023 Represents the 3.85 percent senior notes, which are due in October 2023. Senior Notes Due in 2012 at 7.75 Percent [Member] 7.75% senior notes due 2012 Represents 7.75 percent senior notes, which are due in 2012. Senior Notes Due in August 2016 at 5.88 Percent [Member] 5.88% senior notes due August 2016 Represents 5.88 percent senior notes, which are due in August 2016. Senior Notes Due in December 2013 at 5.63 Percent [Member] Represents 5.63 percent senior notes, which are due in December 2013. PAA 5.63% senior notes due December 2013 5.63% senior notes due December 2013 Senior Notes Due in February 2021 at 5.00 Percent [Member] 5.00% senior notes due February 2021 Represents 5.00 percent senior notes, which are due in February 2021. Senior Notes Due in January 2017 at 6.13 Percent [Member] 6.13% senior notes due January 2017 Represents 6.13 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2017. Senior Notes Due in January 2020 at 5.75 Percent [Member] 5.75% senior notes due January 2020 Represents 5.75 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2020. Senior Notes Due in January 2023 at 2.85 Percent [Member] 2.85% senior notes due January 2023 Represents 2.85 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2023. Senior Notes Due in January 2037 at 6.65 Percent [Member] 6.65% senior notes due January 2037 Represents 6.65 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2037. Senior Notes Due in January 2043 at 4.30 Percent [Member] 4.30% senior notes due January 2043 Represents 4.30 percent senior notes, which are due in January 2043. Senior Notes Due in June, 2015 At 5.25 Percent [Member] 5.25% senior notes due June 2015 Represents 5.25 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2015. 3.65% senior notes due June 2022 Represents 3.65 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2022. Senior Notes Due in June 2022 at 3.65 Percent [Member] Senior Notes Due in June 2042 at 5.15 Percent [Member] 5.15% senior notes due June 2042 Represents 5.15 percent senior notes, which are due in June 2042. Represents 6.50 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2018. Senior Notes Due in May 2018 at 6.50 Percent [Member] 6.50% senior notes due May 2018 Senior Notes Due in May 2019 at 8.75 Percent [Member] 8.75% senior notes due May 2019 Represents 8.75 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2019. Senior Notes Due in May 2036 at 6.70 Percent [Member] 6.70% senior notes due May 2036 Represents 6.70 percent senior notes, which are due in May 2036. Senior Notes Due in September 2012 at 4.25 Percent [Member] 4.25% senior notes due September 2012 Represents 4.25 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2012. Senior Notes Due in September 2015 at 3.95 Percent [Member] 3.95% senior notes due September 2015 Represents 3.95 percent senior notes, which are due in September 2015. Senior Secured Hedged Inventory Debt Facility [Member] Represents the senior secured hedged inventory credit facility of Plains All American Pipeline, L.P., a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PAA senior secured hedged inventory facility maturing in August 2016 PAA senior secured hedged inventory facility Senior secured hedged inventory debt facility scheduled to mature in August 2014 Represents senior secured hedged inventory facility which was schedule to mature in August 2014. Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility Maturing in 2014 [Member] Senior Unsecured Revolving Credit Facility [Member] Represents the senior unsecured revolving credit facility of Plains All American Pipeline, L.P., a subsidiary of the reporting entity. PAA senior unsecured revolving credit facility September 2012 Continuous Offering Program [Member] September 2012 Continuous Offering Program Represents equity distribution agreement pursuant to which issue and sell common units through sales agent under September 2012 continuous offering program. Series A Subordinated Units Series A Subordinated Units [Member] Represents the Series A subordinated units that have a lower priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Represents the Series B subordinated units that have a lower priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Series B Subordinated Units Series B Subordinated Units [Member] The investment in Settoon Towing, LLC (Settoon Towing), a barge transportation services company, which is accounted for under the equity method of accounting. Settoon Towing, LLC Settoon Towing [Member] Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Additional Number of Shares Authorized Represents the incremental number of shares (or other type of equity) originally approved (usually by shareholders and board of directors), net of any subsequent amendments and adjustments, for awards under the equity-based compensation plan. As stock or unit options and equity instruments other than options are awarded to participants, the shares or units remain authorized and become reserved for issuance under outstanding awards (not necessarily vested). Incremental authorized common units (in units) Award vesting (as a percent) Represents the percentage of awards, which vests immediately upon becoming earned units. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Award Vesting of Earned Units Percentage Percentage of awards that will vest upon satisfaction of applicable performance and service conditions. Awards that will vest upon satisfaction of performance and/or service conditions (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Right Percentage of distribution equivalent rights that will vest upon satisfaction of applicable performance and/or service conditions. DERs that will vest upon satisfaction of performance and/or service conditions (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Award Vesting Right Distribution Equivalent Rights Units earned (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. Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding AAP Management Units, beginning balance The grant date fair value of outstanding units. Grant Date Fair Value of Outstanding AAP Management Units, ending balance 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 AAP Management Units The number of equity-based payment instruments, excluding stock (or unit) options, that were converted during the reporting period to awards denominated in another type of units. Share BasedCompensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Converted in Period Conversion of PNG-denominated awards into PAA-denominated awards (in units) Share Based CompensationArrangementByShareBased Payment Award Equity Instruments Other Than Options Converted in Period Weighted Average Grant Date Fair Value Conversion of PNG unit-denominated awards into PAA unit-denominated award (in dollars per unit) Represents the weighted average fair value as of the grant date of equity-based award plans other than stock (unit) option plans that were converted during the reporting period to awards denominated in another type of units. Represents the percentage of total units held that will become earned upon achievement of each distribution level (or within one hundred and eighty days thereof). Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Earned Percentage Increments Increments (as a percent) Represents the grant date fair value of units granted. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Granted in Period Grant Date Fair Value Units granted The number of outstanding distribution equivalent rights that are vested as of the balance sheet date. DERs currently vested (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Including Distribution Equivalent Rights, Earned Number 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 Including Distribution Equivalent Rights Outstanding Units outstanding that include DERs (in units) Share Based Compensation, Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options Issued, Number The number of outstanding awards on non-stock 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. Outstanding at the beginning of the period (in units) Outstanding at the ending of the period (in units) Reserved for future grants outstanding, ending balance (in units) Reserved for future grants outstanding, beginning balance (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Reserved for Future Grants, Outstanding The number of authorized units that have not yet been granted/issued and are reserved for future grants. Outstanding Units Earned, end balance (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Units Earned, Outstanding The number of outstanding awards on non-stock 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 Units Earned, beginning balance (in units) LTIP unit-settled vestings Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Vested in Period Total Settlement Fair Value The total settlement date fair value of equity-based awards for which the grantee gained the right during the reporting period, by satisfying service and performance requirements, to receive or retain shares or units in accordance with the terms of the arrangement, and for which no expense was recognized in equity during prior periods. 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 Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Four Estimated PAA unit vesting in 2017 (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 One Estimated PAA unit vesting in 2014 (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award, Equity Instruments Other than Options, Vesting in Year Three 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. Estimated PAA unit vesting in 2016 (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 Two Estimated PAA 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 thereafter the fourth twelve-month period, following the balance sheet date. Estimated PAA unit vesting thereafter (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Equity Instruments Other than Options Vesting Thereafter Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Grants in Period Awards granted (in shares) Represents the number of share awards (or share units) granted during the period. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Number of Shares Available Under Previous Plans Available for grant under the previous plans (in units) Represents the number of shares available (or other type of equity) originally approved (usually by shareholders and board of directors) for grant under previous equity-based compensation plans. Represents the number of shares granted (or other type of equity) originally approved (usually by shareholders and board of directors) for under previous equity-based compensation plans. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Number of Shares Granted Under Previous Plans Oustanding awards under the previous plans (in units) Represents the annualized distribution threshold that must be met for the vesting of awards. Annualized distribution threshold for vesting of awards (in dollars per share) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Options Expected to Vest Annualized Distribution Threshold Impact to number of unvested LTIP awards due to stock split Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Other Share Increase (Decrease) Stock Split The impact to the number of outstanding awards due to a stock split during the period under the long-term incentive plans. Impact to number of units available for issuance under pagp LTIP The impact to the number of units available for issuance under the long-term incentive plans due to a stock split during the period. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Other Shares Available for Issuance Increase (Decrease) Stock Split Represents the period prior to each vesting date for which the average annualized distribution threshold must be maintained in order for awards to vest. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Period Prior to Each Vesting Date for which Average Annualized Distribution Threshold Must be Maintained Period prior to each vesting date for which the average annualized distribution threshold must be maintained for vesting of awards Vested awards settled in cash (in units) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Shares Vested in Period Settled in Cash 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. LTIP cash-settled vestings Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Vested in Period Cash Settled Aggregate cash paid by the entity during the period to settle equity instruments granted under equity-based payment arrangements that vested during the reporting period by satisfying service and performance requirements. Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Vesting after Fifth Anniversary of Date of Grant Percentage Represents the percentage of awards, which vest immediately if the units become earned after the fifth anniversary of the grant date. Award vesting after the fifth anniversary of the date of grant (as a percent) Share Based Compensation Arrangement by Share Based Payment Award Vesting of Earned Units on Fifth Anniversary of Date of Grant Percentage Represents the percentage of earned awards, which vest on the fifth anniversary of the grant date. Award vesting on the fifth anniversary of the date of grant (as a percent) The length of time, in days, after the achievement of the specified distribution level, after which units will become earned, in some cases. Number of days after achievement of distribution that units will become earned, in some cases Share Based Compensation Shares Authorized under Equity Compensation Plans Period after Distribution Earned The floor of a customized range of annualized distribution amounts required for vesting. Annualized quarterly distribution, low end of range (in dollars per unit) Annualized distribution, low end of range (in dollars per unit) Share Based Compensation Shares Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution Lower Range Limit Share Based Compensation Shares Outstanding under Equity Compensation Plans by Annualized Distribution Upper Range Limit Annualized distribution, high end of range (in dollars per unit) Annualized quarterly distribution, high end of range (in dollars per unit) The ceiling of a customized range of annualized distribution amounts required for vesting. 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 [Axis] 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. Shares Outstanding Reconciliation Abstract Changes in our outstanding shares since becoming public Short Butane position related to subsequent sale of products Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for butane that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities. Short Butane Position Contracts Related To Subsequent Sale of Product [Member] Short Natural Gas Position Related to Anticipated Natural Gas Sales [Member] Short natural gas position related to anticipated natural gas sales Short swap position consisting of swaps related to anticipated sales of natural gas. Short position related to anticipated sales of crude oil, NGL and refined products inventory Represents the derivative instruments in a net short position related to anticipated sales of crude oil, NGL and refined products inventory. Short Position Contracts Related To Anticipated Inventory Sales [Member] Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for propane that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities. Short Propane Position Contracts Related to Subsequent Sale of Product [Member] Short propane position related to subsequent sale of products The period, in years, within which the short-term borrowings must be repaid. Repayment period Short Term Borrowings Repayment Period Short WTI Position Contracts Related To Subsequent Sale of Product [Member] Short WTI position related to subsequent sale of products Represents the derivative instruments in a short position for WTI that hedges the subsequent sale of products derived from our natural gas processing and NGL fractionation activities. Six Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] 6 forward starting interest rate swaps (30-year) Represents the six forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. SLC Pipeline This element represents the information pertaining to SLC Pipeline LLC. SLC Pipeline LLC [Member] Southern Pines Acquisition [Member] Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of SG Resources Mississippi, LLC, whose primary asset is in Southern Pines natural gas storage facility. Southern Pines Acquisition Special PAA Awards [Member] Special PAA Awards 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. Standby Letter of Credit, Issuance Period, Upper Limit Issuance period for standby letters of credit, upper limit The upper limit of the issuance period for standby letters of credit, as stated in days. Represents a guarantee of payment issued by a financial institution that is used to support obligations due from third parties, a portion of which applies to future business. Standby Letters of Credit Received Standby letters of credit CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN PARTNERS' CAPITAL / MEMBERS' EQUITY St James Louisiana [Member] St. James, Louisiana Represents information pertaining to the crude oil rail loading terminals located in St. James, Louisiana. Stock Issued During Period Shares Through Exercise of Underwriter Option Number shares issued in initial public offering through full exercise of the underwriter's overallotment option Represents the number of new stock issued during the period through full exercise of the underwriter's overallotment option. Represents the number of shares of new stock issued during the period through partial exercise of the underwriter's overallotment option. Stock Issued During Period Shares Through Partial Exercise of Underwriter Overallotment Option Number of shares issued in initial public offering through partial exercise of the underwriter's overallotment option Storage, terminal and rail facilities Storage, Terminal and Rail Facilities [Member] Long lived depreciable assets used primarily for the storage and terminalling of crude oil, refined products and liquefied petroleum gas, other natural gas-related petroleum products and rail facilities. Storage Terminalling Processing and Related Revenues Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas during the period. Facilities segment revenues Facilities segment revenues Storage Terminalling Processing and Related Revenues [Member] Revenue from the storage, terminalling and processing of crude oil, refined products, NGL and natural gas during the period. 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 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 level (in dollars per unit) Minimum distribution on annualized basis (in dollars per unit) 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. Subordinated units Represents information pertaining to subordinated units that have a lower priority of repayment in liquidation of the entity's assets. Subordinated Units [Member] Subsidiary Equity Issuance, Units Purchased Units purchased (in units) This element represents units purchased during the subsidiary equity issuance. 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. Represents ten forward starting 30-year interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. 10 forward starting interest rate swaps (30-year) Ten Forward Starting Thirty Year Interest Rate Swap [Member] Texas New Mexico pipeline assets purchased from Link Texas New Mexico [Member] This element represents the information pertaining to Texas New Mexico. Third Quarter Distribution FY 2013 [Member] Third quarter distribution Represents the agreed-upon reduction in the amount of incentive distributions paid, beginning after the third full fiscal year following the end of the fiscal year in which the entity entered into the agreement and plan of merger. Three Forward Starting Interest Rate Swap [Member] 3 forward starting interest rate swaps Represents three forward starting interest rate swaps to hedge the underlying benchmark interest rate related to forecasted debt issuances. Three interest rate swaps Total number of cases filed Total Cases Filed Number The total number of cases filed as of the date specified. Total cost to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries Represents the total cost to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries. Total Cost to Clean Up and Remediate Site before Insurance Recoveries Total Distribution Paid During Period Total distributions paid during the period Represents the total cash distributions paid during the period. Represents the estimated total cost to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries. Total Estimated Cost to Clean Up and Remediate Site, before Insurance Recoveries Total estimated cost to clean up and remediate the site, before insurance recoveries Represents the information pertaining to the tranche five of the modification of holdings. Tranche Five [Member] Tranche 5 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche four of the modification of holdings. Tranche Four [Member] Tranche 4 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche one of the modification of holdings. Tranche One [Member] Tranche 1 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche three of the modification of holdings. Tranche Three [Member] Tranche 3 Represents the information pertaining to the tranche two of the modification of holdings. Tranche Two [Member] Tranche 2 Represents the transfer of common units of subsidiary entity to noncontrolling interests in connection with the settlement of equity compensation awards. Number of common units transfer to noncontrolling interests in connection with the settlement of equity compensation awards (in shares) Transfer of Subsidiary Stock To Noncontrolling Interests in Settlement of Equity Compensation Awards Trucking Equipment and Other [Member] 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. Trucking equipment and other The aggregate total of expenses of managing and administering the affairs of an entity, including affiliates of the reporting entity, which are not directly or indirectly associated with the manufacture, sale or creation of a product or product line and which are not allocated to a specific operating segment. Unallocated general and administrative expenses Unallocated General and Administrative Expense Represents equity distribution to issue and sell common units to the public. Underwritten Public Offering [Member] Underwritten Equity Offering Unit Conversion Ratio Represents the conversion ratio used to calculated the number of AAP units and Class B shares that will be received upon exchange of AAP Management Units, which is calculated in accordance with the AAP limited partnership agreement. Conversion ratio of AAP Management Units to AAP units and Class B shares Unit Exchange Ratio AAP unit conversion ratio to shares Represents the number of Class A shares that will be received in exchange for each AAP unit, when exchanged in conjunction with an equal number of Class B shares and general partner units. Total gains/(losses) for the period: Unrealized Gains and Losses Relating to Level 3 Derivatives [Abstract] USD Rail Terminal Acquisition [Member] USD Rail Terminal Acquisition Represents information pertaining to the acquisition of USD Rail Terminal. Variation margin paid/(received) Additional margin paid (received) subsequent to the payment/receipt of initial margin. Variation Margin Paid Received Volume of crude oil recovered by clean-up operations (in barrels) Represents the volume of estimated crude oil recovered by clean-up operations. Volume of Crude Oil Recovered by Clean up Operations Volume of operational storage capacity (in barrels) The volume of operational storage capacity. Volumes of Operational Storage Capacity Western Acquisition Represents the information pertaining to the acquisition of Western Refining. Western Refining Acquisition [Member] White Cliffs Pipeline, LLC 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 [Member] Business Combination Recognized Identifiable Assets Acquired and Liabilities Assumed Other Working Capital Net of Cash Acquired Other working capital, net of cash acquired Amount of other working capital recognized as of the acquisition date.