Texas Drilling Permits: Week of March 30–April 06, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued 146 new drilling permits during the week of March 30th to April 6th, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state. This report provides a snapshot of the key trends and players shaping the Texas oil and gas landscape.
Martin County led the pack with a significant 30 permits issued, highlighting its continued importance in the Permian Basin. Midland County followed with 14 permits, while Crane County saw 10 permits approved. Upton County and Glasscock County also saw strong activity, with 9 and 7 permits, respectively. This data suggests a concentrated focus on the Permian Basin, with operators continuing to develop existing acreage and explore new opportunities.
Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. was the most active operator, securing 41 permits. Blackbeard Operating, LLC followed with 10 permits, and Magnolia Oil & Gas Operating LLC secured 8 permits. Diamondback E&P LLC and OXYROCK OPERATING, LLC also demonstrated significant activity, with 7 and 6 permits, respectively. These operators are clearly driving a significant portion of the drilling activity in Texas.
Several high-priority permits were also noted during this period. These included Permit #906277 from Blackbeard Operating, LLC in Winkler County, Permit #914340 from VERDUN OIL EF II LLC in La Salle County, and Permit #914384 from SABINE ENERGY INC. in Panola County. Additional high-priority permits were issued to Ovintiv USA Inc. in Andrews County (Permit #850696) and Diamondback E&P LLC in Glasscock County (Permit #914369). The estimated spud dates for these permits are still to be determined.
With West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil trading at $111.75/bbl, a $10.37 increase from the prior close, the economic incentives for drilling remain strong. This price environment is likely contributing to the robust permit activity observed this week.
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