Texas Drilling Permits: Week of April 29–May 06, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued 181 new drilling permits during the week of April 29 to May 06, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state's oil and gas sector. This report provides a snapshot of the key trends and players driving this week's permitting landscape.
Midland County led the pack with 22 permits, followed by Atascosa County with 12 permits, and Pecos County with 11 permits. Reeves County saw 10 permits issued, while Upton County rounded out the top five with 8 permits. This distribution highlights the diverse geographic spread of drilling activity across Texas.
In terms of operator activity, Ovintiv USA Inc. and Kinder Morgan Production Co LLC tied for the lead, each securing 16 permits. EOG Resources, Inc. followed with 11 permits, while Apache Corporation obtained 9 permits. Triple Crown Resources, LLC secured 7 permits during the week. These operators represent a mix of established industry leaders and active players, indicating a healthy level of competition and investment in Texas oil and gas.
The highest-priority permits this week, according to the RRC, include Permit #910918 from SOJOURNER DRILLING CORPORATION in Fisher County, Permit #915172 from 3R OPERATING, LLC in Winkler County, Permit #915218 from G & F OIL, INC. in Jack County, and two permits from CYTEX SOUTH TEXAS OPERATING LLC, Permit #915207 and Permit #915208, both in Dimmit County. The estimated spud dates for these permits are still to be determined.
With WTI crude oil prices at $100.79/bbl, down $1.15 from the prior close, operators continue to navigate market fluctuations while maintaining active drilling programs. For real-time monitoring of these permits and more in-depth analysis, consider using DownHole Digital. Learn more at downhole.digital