v3.10.0.1
DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION - shares
9 Months Ended
Sep. 30, 2018
Oct. 26, 2018
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]    
Entity Registrant Name CLEAN HARBORS INC  
Entity Central Index Key 0000822818  
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31  
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer  
Entity Emerging Growth Company false  
Entity Small Business false  
Document Type 10-Q  
Document Period End Date Sep. 30, 2018  
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2018  
Document Fiscal Period Focus Q3  
Amendment Flag false  
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   56,005,486