Texas Porch

Oil & Gas Regulation

Oil and gas drilling in Midland County is regulated by the Railroad Commission

The Railroad Commission of Texas issues drilling permits and oversees oil and gas operations throughout the Permian Basin, including Midland County.

Midland County Home & Property

Before drilling a well, operators must apply for a permit and show they have a valid mineral lease. The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) is the state agency that approves these permits. The RRC focuses on protecting freshwater zones, preventing pollution, and making sure wells are properly plugged when production ends.

The RRC does not limit how close a well can be to a home in unincorporated areas — those are areas outside city limits. If you live in unincorporated Midland County, an operator can drill near your home as long as it follows RRC spacing and setback rules.

You can search for permitted wells and production data at rrc.texas.gov. If you have concerns about a specific operation near you, contact the RRC's Midland district office.

Source to confirm: Railroad Commission of Texas — Permian Basin FAQ

More Midland County notes

Property Tax Basics

Two offices handle your property taxes in Midland County

The appraisal district sets your property value; the tax office sends the bill and collects money — they are separate offices with different jobs.

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Homestead Exemption

Homestead exemption can lower your property tax bill in Midland

If your home is your main residence, you can apply once for a homestead exemption that reduces your taxable value and caps annual value increases at 10 percent.

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Senior Tax Exemption

Homeowners 65 and older get extra tax relief in Midland County

Residents 65 or older can claim a larger homestead exemption that may also freeze their school district tax bill at its current level.

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Appraisal Protest

You can challenge your property appraisal in Midland County

Every property owner has the right to protest if they think the Midland Central Appraisal District valued their property too high.

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