Texas Drilling Permits: Week of May 06–May 13, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) issued 216 new drilling permits during the week of May 06–May 13, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state's oil and gas plays. This report provides a snapshot of the week's permitting landscape, offering valuable insights for E&P companies, land professionals, and oilfield service providers.
Midland County led the pack with 43 permits, followed by Upton County with 30 permits. Martin County saw 17 permits issued, while Reeves County received 16, and Karnes County recorded 12. These top counties reflect ongoing development in the Permian Basin and, to a lesser extent, the Eagle Ford Shale.
Diamondback E&P LLC secured the most permits during the week, with 32. Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. followed with 22 permits. COG Operating LLC obtained 14 permits, and Ovintiv USA Inc. was granted 13. Magnolia Oil & Gas Operating LLC rounded out the top operators with 9 permits. These operators are actively driving drilling activity across various Texas counties.
Several permits were flagged as high-priority this week. These included Permit #915413 issued to COMSTOCK OIL & GAS, LLC in ROBERTSON County, Permit #915418 issued to TREK RESOURCES, INC. in HOWARD County, and Permit #915411 issued to WALSH & WATTS, INC. in CROCKETT County. Additionally, Permit #915404 issued to KORNYE-TILLMAN COMPANY in YOUNG County and Permit #915412 issued to VTX ENERGY OPERATING, LLC in REEVES County were also highlighted. The estimated spud dates for these permits are still to be determined.
WTI crude oil closed at $101.83/bbl, reflecting a $6.41 increase compared to the prior close. This price movement may influence future drilling decisions and investment strategies.
For real-time monitoring of RRC permit activity and comprehensive data analysis, consider leveraging DownHole Digital's services. learn more at downhole.digital