Texas Drilling Permits: Week of March 23–March 30, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued a total of 89 new drilling permits during the week of March 23–March 30, 2026, signaling continued activity in the state's oil and gas sector. This report provides a snapshot of the week's permitting landscape, offering valuable insights for E&P companies, land professionals, and oilfield service providers.
Martin County led the pack with a significant 28 permits issued, demonstrating strong interest in the region. Other counties with notable permit activity included Crane (9 permits), Upton (8 permits), Glasscock (7 permits), and San Augustine (4 permits). This distribution highlights the diverse geographic spread of drilling activity across Texas.
Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. secured the most permits during the week, with a total of 32. Blackbeard Operating, LLC followed with 10 permits, while OXYROCK OPERATING, LLC, Diamondback E&P LLC, and Ovintiv USA Inc. also demonstrated considerable activity, with 6, 5, and 4 permits respectively. This data underscores the dominant players driving drilling operations in Texas.
Several high-priority permits were also issued during the week. These included Permit #906277 to Blackbeard Operating, LLC in Winkler County, Permit #914340 to VERDUN OIL EF II LLC in La Salle County, and Permit #914384 to SABINE ENERGY INC. in Panola County. Additionally, Ovintiv USA Inc. received Permit #850696 in Andrews County, and Diamondback E&P LLC was granted Permit #914369 in Glasscock County. These permits represent key projects with estimated spud dates to be determined.
The WTI crude price closed at $100.61/bbl, reflecting a $10.29 increase versus the prior close, which may have influenced the week's permitting activity.
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