Mineral rights and surface ownership often split in Andrews County

Andrews County has been producing oil since 1929. It ranks among Texas's top oil-producing counties. Because of that long history, mineral rights and surface rights are often owned by different people. This happens when a past owner sold the land but kept the minerals, or sold the minerals separately. When that occurs, the two estates are called "severed."

Under Texas law, the mineral estate is dominant. That means an oil and gas operator can enter your land, drill wells, build roads, and run pipelines, even without your permission, as long as those actions are needed to reach the minerals. The Railroad Commission of Texas (RRC) is the state agency that oversees all oil and gas production. The RRC issues drilling permits and handles complaints about operators.

Before you buy land in Andrews County, find out if the minerals are included. A title company or real estate attorney can search the deed records. If you already own land and get a lease offer, consider talking to an attorney first. The RRC website has a Land and Mineral Owners section with general guidance at rrc.texas.gov.