Texas Drilling Permits: Week of May 08–May 15, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued 305 new drilling permits during the week of May 08–May 15, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state's oil and gas sector. 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 55 permits, followed by Upton County with 29 permits, and Reeves County with 23 permits. Webb County saw 22 permits issued, while Martin County rounded out the top five with 18 permits. These figures highlight the key areas of focus for drilling activity during this period.
Diamondback E&P LLC secured the most permits, with 32 approvals. Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. followed with 24 permits. EOG Resources, Inc. received 16 permits, while Ovintiv USA Inc. and COG Operating LLC each obtained 14 permits. These operators are clearly driving significant drilling activity across Texas.
Several high-priority permits were also identified this week. Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. received permits #915453 and #915454 in Upton County. In Midland County, Permian Deep Rock Oil Co., LLC received permit #909226. Blackbrush O & G, LLC was granted permit #915439 in Maverick County, and Diamondback E&P LLC secured permit #894599 in Martin County. The estimated spud dates for these permits are still to be determined.
WTI crude closed at $99.84/bbl, up $1.77 from the prior close, which may have influenced the week's permitting activity.
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