| Document and Entity Information | Oct. 12, 2021 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | COVANTA HOLDING CORP |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000225648 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Oct. 12, 2021 |
| Entity File Number | 1-06732 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 95-6021257 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 445 South Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Morristown |
| Entity Address, State or Province | NJ |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 07960 |
| City Area Code | (862) |
| Local Phone Number | 345-5000 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock, Par Value $0.10 Per Share |
| Trading Symbol | CVA |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
