Texas Drilling Permits: Week of May 21–May 28, 2026 — RRC Activity Report
The Texas Railroad Commission (RRC) issued 207 new drilling permits during the week of May 21st to May 28th, 2026, signaling continued activity across the state's oil and gas sector. This report provides a snapshot of the week's permit activity, highlighting key counties, operators, and notable permits.
Midland County led the pack with 35 permits, demonstrating its continued importance in Texas oil production. Gaines, Pecos, Loving, and Glasscock counties followed, each with 17, 11, 11, and 11 permits, respectively. This distribution reflects the ongoing focus on the Permian Basin and other active regions within the state.
OXY USA INC. topped the list of operators, securing 25 permits. Pioneer Natural Res. USA, Inc. followed with 19 permits, while Diamondback E&P LLC secured 14. Apache Corporation and Kinder Morgan Production Co LLC also demonstrated significant activity, with 11 and 8 permits, respectively. This operator activity underscores the competitive landscape and the ongoing investment in Texas oil and gas exploration and production.
Several high-priority permits were issued this week, including Permit #803395 to DEVON ENERGY PRODUCTION CO, L.P. in Karnes County, and Permit #899581 and #899584 to Diamondback E&P LLC in Martin County. Marathon Oil EF LLC received Permit #907540 in Atascosa County. Formentera Operations LLC was issued Permit #915793 in Frio County. The estimated spud dates for these permits are still to be determined.
WTI crude closed at $91.49/bbl, down $5.11 from the prior close.
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