Texas Drilling Permits: Week of May 07–May 14, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) issued 208 new drilling permits during the week of May 07–May 14, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state. This report provides a snapshot of the key trends and players shaping Texas’s oil and gas landscape.
Midland County led the pack with 43 permits, followed by Upton County with 30 permits. Martin County saw 17 permits issued, while Reeves County and Reagan County recorded 13 and 11 permits, respectively. These figures highlight the ongoing focus on the Permian Basin, where these counties are located.
Diamondback E&P LLC secured the most permits, with 32 approvals. Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc. followed with 22 permits. COG Operating LLC received 14 permits, and Ovintiv USA Inc. was granted 13. Magnolia Oil & Gas Operating LLC rounded out the top operators with 9 permits.
Several permits of interest were issued this week. VTX Energy Operating, LLC received permits #915401 and #915402 in Reeves County. Pioneer Natural Resources USA, Inc. was issued permits #915451 and #915452 in Upton County. Kinder Morgan Production Co LLC received permit #915433 in Scurry County. The estimated spud dates for these permits are still to be determined.
With WTI crude oil prices at $100.64/bbl, up $2.57 from the prior close, the economic incentives for drilling remain strong. Staying informed about these permit trends is crucial for E&P companies, land professionals, and oilfield service providers. DownHole Digital offers real-time monitoring of these permits, providing valuable insights to help you stay ahead of the curve. Learn more at downhole.digital