Although developers do not want subdivisions where all the houses look just alike, they do want to realize maximum conformity. If these seem to be overly restrictive then you may not want to buy in a subdivision, but opt for a larger tract of land where there are no restrictions. But believe or not all of the above covenants have the purpose of maximizing property values in their respective subdivisions. The answer can be found in the covenants themselves. There will be a section setting forth how the covenants may be changed.
Some covenants even require unanimous approval.
In general, only the property owners in the subdivision may enforce the covenants. So it's up to you and your neighbors, not the developer.