v3.6.0.2
Document and Entity Information - USD ($)
$ in Thousands
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Feb. 21, 2017
Jun. 30, 2016
Document and Entity Information      
Entity Registrant Name AMERICAN STATES WATER CO    
Entity Central Index Key 0001056903    
Current Fiscal Year End Date --12-31    
Entity Filer Category Large Accelerated Filer    
Document Type 10-K    
Document Period End Date Dec. 31, 2016    
Document Fiscal Year Focus 2016    
Document Fiscal Period Focus FY    
Amendment Flag false    
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding   36,586,831  
Entity Well-known Seasoned Issuer Yes    
Entity Voluntary Filers No    
Entity Current Reporting Status Yes    
Entity Public Float   $ 1,629,577 $ 1,601,802