Texas Drilling Permits: Week of April 09–April 16, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued a total of 148 new drilling permits during the week of April 09–April 16, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state's oil and gas plays. This report provides a breakdown of the key areas and operators driving this week's permitting activity.
Midland County led the pack with 33 permits, followed by Upton County with 13, and Reeves County with 12. Karnes County saw 10 permits, while Irion County recorded 9. These numbers highlight the ongoing focus on the Permian Basin, where Midland, Upton, and Reeves counties are located, as well as the Eagle Ford Shale, where Karnes County is a major player.
Diamondback E&P LLC secured the most permits this week, with 26. COG Operating LLC followed with 11 permits. Triple Crown Resources, LLC obtained 9 permits, while Anadarko E&P Onshore LLC and Silver Hill Energy Operating LLC each secured 8 and 7 permits, respectively. These operators are key players in the Texas oil and gas landscape, and their permitting activity is a strong indicator of their future drilling plans.
Several high-priority permits were issued this week, including Permit #914672 in Upton County for OVINTIV USA INC., and Permit #914678 in McMullen County for COLUMBUS ENERGY, LLC. PERMIAN DEEP ROCK OIL CO., LLC received permits #914639, #914640, and #914642, all in Midland County. The estimated spud dates for these permits are yet to be determined, but they represent significant potential for future production.
WTI crude closed at $91.49/bbl this week, down $7.59 from the prior close.
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