| Document and Entity Information | Aug. 03, 2020 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Entity Registrant Name | SERVICE CORP INTERNATIONAL |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000089089 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Aug. 3, 2020 |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | TX |
| Entity File Number | 1-6402-1 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 74-1488375 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 1929 Allen Parkway |
| Entity Address, Address Line Two | Houston Texas |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Houston |
| Entity Address, State or Province | TX |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 77019 |
| City Area Code | (713) |
| Local Phone Number | 522-5141 |
| Written Communications | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Stock ($1 par value) |
| Trading Symbol | SCI |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
