Sec. 4. (a) As used in this chapter, "person in interest" means:
(1) if used in reference to an oil and gas estate in land, the owner of a beneficial interest in the oil and gas estate in land; or
(2) if used in reference to a coal bed methane estate in land, the owner of a beneficial interest in the coal bed methane estate in land;
whether the interest is held for life, for a term of years, or in fee.
(b) The term includes a lessee, licensee, or duly qualified agent of the owner.
(c) The term does not include a mortgagee or security assignee of the owner if the mortgagee or security assignee does not have a right to the control or operation of the premises for:
(1) if used in reference to an oil and gas estate in land, oil and gas; or
(2) if used in reference to a coal bed methane estate in land, coal bed methane.