This is central California.
If the open sew time is during regular work hours, some stores charge and others don't. We do use space, AC, tables, chairs, electricity, iron and board. If it's beyond regular business hours there's $10 chg as they also pay an employee to work those hours. She also helps with questions and sells merchandise. The stores allow eating on the premisis, but don't provide it. During group sew-ins, the space available for each participant may be limited to 1/2 or less of an 8ft table. Some stores have design wall space, others don't. Sewing projects need to be planned to stay within the space available. The space is being rented by the business to contribute to their business. They need to make a profit to stay in business.
Sometimes there are "finish with ____________" then there is a charge for the instructor.
Occasionally there is a "sew for charity" and there's no charge.
Most LQS have "down time" in their classroom space and will let patrons use it upon arrangement (may or maynot be a charge) to use large spaces for design or sandwich a quilt.