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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Advances for Construction and Contributions in Aid of Construction) (Details) (USD $)
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
 12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2014
Accounting Policies [Abstract]  
Refund period for advances for construction received after 1981 40 years
Estimated Refunds of Advances for Construction [Abstract]  
2015 $ 2,508sjw_AdvancesForConstructionEstimatedRefundsNextTwelveMonths
2016 2,508sjw_AdvancesForConstructionEstimatedRefundsYearTwo
2017 2,508sjw_AdvancesForConstructionEstimatedRefundsYearThree
2018 2,508sjw_AdvancesForConstructionEstimatedRefundsYearFour
2019 2,508sjw_AdvancesForConstructionEstimatedRefundsYearFive
Thereafter $ 60,763sjw_AdvancesForConstructionEstimatedRefundsAfterYearFive
Amortization period for taxes paid relating to advances and contributions 40 years