Texas Drilling Permits: Week of May 05–May 12, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued 139 new drilling permits during the week of May 05–May 12, 2026, signaling continued activity in the state's oil and gas sector. This report provides a snapshot of the key trends and players driving this week's permitting activity.
Upton County led the pack with 26 permits, followed by Midland and Martin counties, each with 16 permits. Reeves County saw 15 permits issued, and Reagan County rounded out the top five with 11 permits. These counties represent some of the most active areas for exploration and production in Texas.
Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. and Diamondback E&P LLC tied for the top spot among operators, each securing 20 permits. Ovintiv USA Inc. followed with 11 permits, while XRI Disposal Holdings, LLC and TGNR Panola LLC obtained 8 and 6 permits, respectively. This data highlights the significant investment and operational focus of these key players in the Texas oil patch.
The highest-priority permits this week include several in Fisher, Dawson, and Mitchell counties. R K Petroleum Corp. secured two permits in Fisher County (Permit #915397 and #913797), while LITHOS RESOURCES II, LLC obtained a permit in Dawson County (Permit #915360). Bayswater Operating Company LLC was issued two permits in Mitchell County (Permit #911663 and #911664). The estimated spud dates for these wells are to be determined.
With WTI crude oil trading at $101.36/bbl, up $6.55 versus the prior close, the economic environment continues to support drilling activity. For real-time monitoring of these and other Texas drilling permits, consider DownHole Digital. Learn more at downhole.digital