Texas Drilling Permits: Week of April 16–April 23, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued 121 new drilling permits across the state during the week of April 16–April 23, 2026, signaling continued activity in the Texas oil patch. This report provides a snapshot of the week's permitting landscape, highlighting key counties, operators, and notable permits.
Upton and Martin counties tied for the highest permit count, each with 12 new permits issued. Following closely were Ward and Reagan counties, each with 7 permits. Midland County also saw significant activity, with 7 permits issued. These counties continue to be focal points for exploration and production in Texas.
Diamondback E&P LLC led the pack in operator activity, securing 16 permits. DE Central Operating, LLC and COG Operating LLC each received 6 permits. Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. and Matador Production Company rounded out the top operators, each with 5 permits. This data reflects the ongoing strategies of major players and smaller companies alike in expanding their Texas operations.
Several permits of interest were issued this week. Permit #914932, issued to TEP Barnett USA, LLC in Tarrant County, and Permit #914921, issued to Redemption Ranch Oil & Gas LLC in Gonzales County, are among the highest-priority permits. OKIE Operating Company, LTD. received Permit #914927 in Throckmorton County. Firebird Energy II LLC secured Permit #914856 in Borden County, and COG Operating LLC received Permit #914880 in Upton County. The estimated spud dates for these permits are still to be determined.
With WTI crude trading at $94.63/bbl, up $5.02 from the prior close, the economic environment is supportive of continued drilling activity. For real-time monitoring of these and other drilling permits, consider DownHole Digital. Learn more at downhole.digital