They can, and they often do. HOA covenants can restrict placement to rear yards only, require minimum distances from property lines that exceed township setbacks, or dictate which direction the doors face. Every HOA is different.
The HOA rules apply on top of your township's zoning rules, not instead of them. You need to satisfy both. Start with your HOA's guidelines, then cross-check with your township to make sure the placement works on both fronts.



