matkat, he doesn't mean cabin defect log by CDL whish is what you are thinking (I think) the CDL he means can be airworthy, Config Devialtion.
Some companies merge the CDL into the MEL so that if you get an Item that is allowed to be U/S and it has a maintenance action (little m in brackets), say locking a valve open, popping a CB and putting an inop sticker on it - that is the CDL part.
Some companies still have the CDL seperate from the MEL
So I think the MEL time limits are still the controlling aspect. Can you give me an example of a CDL item that is not MEL controlled?