Texas Drilling Permits: Week of May 12–May 19, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued a total of 215 new drilling permits during the week of May 12–May 19, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state's diverse oil and gas plays. This report provides a snapshot of the week's key trends, highlighting the most active counties, operators, and basins.
Midland County led the pack with 39 permits, demonstrating its continued importance as a core area for drilling activity. Webb County followed with 22 permits, while Reeves County saw 13 permits issued. Karnes County and Winkler County rounded out the top five, with 8 and 7 permits, respectively. This distribution reflects the ongoing focus on the Permian Basin and other key producing regions.
EOG RESOURCES, INC. secured the most permits during the week, with a total of 16. COG OPERATING LLC followed closely with 14 permits, and DIAMONDBACK E&P LLC received 12 permits. APACHE CORPORATION and MAGNOLIA OIL & GAS OPERATING LLC also demonstrated significant activity, securing 10 and 8 permits, respectively. These operators represent some of the most active players in the Texas oil and gas industry.
While specific basin activity is varied, the highest-priority permits this week were all issued to TGNR PANOLA LLC in Panola County. These permits, numbered 915540, 915541, 915544, 915542, and 915545, each have a score of 0, with estimated spud dates to be determined.
The price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil closed at $103.72/bbl, up $2.55 from the prior close, which may further incentivize drilling activity in the coming weeks.
For real-time monitoring of these and other Texas RRC drilling permits, consider using DownHole Digital. Learn more at downhole.digital