Texas Drilling Permits: Week of March 25–April 01, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued 113 new drilling permits during the week of March 25–April 01, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state's oil and gas sector. This report provides a snapshot of the week's key trends, highlighting active counties, leading operators, and notable permit filings.
Martin County led the pack with a significant 28 permits issued, demonstrating strong drilling interest in the region. Midland County followed with 13 permits, while Upton and Crane counties each saw 9 permits approved. Glasscock County rounded out the top counties with 7 permits. These figures reflect the ongoing development and exploration efforts across various Texas basins.
Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. was the most active operator, securing 41 permits. Blackbeard Operating, LLC followed with 10 permits. OXYROCK OPERATING, LLC obtained 6 permits, while Diamondback E&P LLC secured 5. Verdun Oil & Gas LLC rounded out the top operators with 4 permits.
Several high-priority permits were filed this week, including Permit #906277 from Blackbeard Operating, LLC in Winkler County. Verdun Oil EF II LLC filed Permit #914340 in La Salle County, and Sabine Energy Inc. filed Permit #914384 in Panola County. Ovintiv USA Inc. filed Permit #850696 in Andrews County, and Diamondback E&P LLC filed Permit #914369 in Glasscock County. Estimated spud dates for these permits are still to be determined.
WTI crude closed at $97.95/bbl, down $1.69 from the prior close.
For real-time monitoring of RRC permit activity, including detailed data on operators, locations, and permit status, consider DownHole Digital. Learn more at downhole.digital