Texas Drilling Permits: Week of April 27–May 04, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued 189 new drilling permits during the week of April 27–May 04, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state's oil and gas sector. This report provides a snapshot of the week's key trends, highlighting the most active counties, operators, and basin activity.
Midland County led the pack with 22 permits, demonstrating its continued importance as a core area for drilling operations. Pecos and Atascosa counties tied for second, each with 12 permits issued. Reeves County followed with 10 permits, and Reagan County saw 9 permits approved. These figures underscore the diverse geographic spread of drilling activity across Texas.
OVINTIV USA INC. and KINDER MORGAN PRODUCTION CO LLC tied for the top spot among operators, each securing 16 permits. EOG RESOURCES, INC. followed with 11 permits, while APACHE CORPORATION obtained 9. ADMIRAL PERMIAN OPERATING LLC rounded out the top operators with 8 permits. This data reflects the ongoing commitment of major players to maintain and expand their Texas operations.
Focusing on basin activity, several high-priority permits were issued this week. ADMIRAL PERMIAN OPERATING LLC received permits for five wells in Loving County. These permits, numbered 915140 through 915144, each have a score of 0 and an estimated spud date of TBD, indicating these are planned wells.
Market watchers should note that West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude closed at $102.39 per barrel during this period, down $4.49 from the prior close.
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